He's the man most likely to replace David Pocock in 2017 and now Jarrad Butler is certainty to be in Canberra until at least 2017.
Butler has been a critical piece of the Brumbies back row since joining the Canberra franchise from the Reds in 2014.
The 24-year-old won the Brett Robinson Players' Player award after a breakout debut season for the Brumbies and has gone from strength to strength since.
Earmarked as the understudy for David Pocock, having stepped up when the Wallabies backrower was injured in 2014 and again in recent weeks with Pocock suspended.
Butler is likely to have the first crack at the openside spot left vacant when Pocock takes a rugby sabbatical in 2017.
The former Queensland Red has had an interrupted start to 2016, missing a month with a knee injury, but returned successfully to the starting side against the Waratahs last weekend.
Brumbies coach Stephen Larkham said Butler was an important piece of the Brumbies side.
“Jarrad has proved time and time again that he is one of the best up and coming players in Australian Rugby,” Larkham said.
“He has been a consistent member of the Brumbies match day side since joining the club and plays a vital role every week whether it is as a reserve or a starting player.
Butler said he was eagerly anticipating another season with the franchise.
“I am very proud to wear the Brumbies jersey and be a part of a squad that is filled with so much talent,” Butler said.
“The opportunity to work within this program and continue our push for a Super Rugby title is one I am looking forward to.
“It’s very pleasing to know that I’ll be here again next year.”
The Brumbies host the Crusaders at GIO Stadium on Sunday afternoon, kicking off at 4:05pm AEST LIVE on FOXSPORTS
