Hawthorn key forward Mitch Lewis has inked a new four-year deal to remain in the brown and gold until the end of the 2026 season.

Lewis is enjoying a breakout campaign in his sixth year at Waverley, having booted 27 goals from nine matches under rookie coach Sam Mitchell.

That tally has the Calder Cannons product ranked 4th in the competition for goals per game and 11th overall.

Lewis made his debut with the Hawks in 2018 against Brisbane and has gone on to add a further 44 appearances to his career tally, developing into a star forward for the club.

Hawks list boss Mark McKenzie expressed his delight in locking away Lewis' signature to a new long-term deal.

“We are thrilled to see Mitch commit to the club for at least the next four years,” McKenzie said.

“We think Mitch’s desire to remain with the Hawks is a reflection of the culture and environment that continues to build as well as the optimism that surrounds our future.

“Mitch has shown some significant progress over the last 12 months, particularly through this year’s pre-season, to become one of Hawthorn’s most consistent forwards.

Mitchell Lewis during the AFL match between Hawthorn and St Kilda in Round 4, 2022 (Photo by Cameron Grimes / Zero Digital Media)

“This deal highlights Mitch’s hunger for success at Hawthorn, and we look forward to seeing him further his craft in the brown and gold.”

The retention of Lewis adds to a strong year of re-signings at the Hawks, with Denver Grainger-Barras (2024), Changkuoth Jiath (2024), Ned Long (2023), Jack Scrimshaw (2024), James Sicily (2027) having all committed to the club in 2022.

Lewis is set to make his return from injury on Friday when the Hawks battle with the Bulldogs at Marvel Stadium at 7:00pm (AEST).