Hawthorn’s generational change continues, with AFL young gun Ryan Burton locked in until 2020.

The signing comes the week after their spiritual leader Luke Hodge announced he would retire at the end of the season.

There is huge excitement at Hawthorn about Burton, who has missed only one game since his senior debut late last season.

Burton won a Rising Star nomination in round two, his first game of the season, and is a strong contender for the overall award this year.

The Hawks recruited Burton with the No.19 pick in the 2015 national draft and he has become a mainstay in their defence.

“He has been in terrific form this season and has really cemented his spot in the backline, with the ability to play on a variety of talls and smalls,” said Hawks list manager Graham Wright.

Burton is lapping up his last few games alongside Hodge as the Hawks continue to rebuild and put as many games as possible into their young players.

“I’m just trying to enjoy the last few weeks with ‘Hodgey’ and trying to learn as much as I can from him,” Burton told the club website.

“I feel like we’re a totally different team from the first four rounds of the season.

“We’re playing more consistent footy, and we’re just trying to keep building that continuity within the playing group.”