Darragh Joyce and Dean Kent have recommitted to the Saints, both penning new one-year deals.

24-year-old Joyce remained a solid option down back for St Kilda in 2021, playing half of his total career games this season.

“We were really pleased with Darragh’s development over the past few seasons,” Head of List Management James Gallagher said.

"His versatility, competitiveness and athleticism give him the ability to man key posts at both ends, and has seen Darragh rewarded with opportunities in the senior line up this year."

After an injury ravaged first half of 2021, 27-year-old Kent returned to the Saints line up in Round 17, retaining his place for the remainder of the season.

“Dean’s power and strength are valuable assets for us,” Gallagher said.

He has the ability to push higher up the ground as well as create a contest and apply pressure in our forward 50, and we look forward to seeing more of it in 2022.

- James Gallagher.

Joyce joined the Saints as a Category B rookie at the end of 2016, becoming the third Irishman to represent the club. Since making his debut against Melbourne in Round 15 of the 2018 season, Joyce has played a further nine games for St Kilda.

Kent joined St Kilda at the end of 2018 following six years at Melbourne Football Club, where he played 63 games. Since his debut for the club in Round 1 of the 2019 season, Kent has played 35 games in the red, white and black.