THE evolution of Nathan Brown at the Parramatta Eels has seen the reigning Ken Thornett Medallist awarded with a new three-year contract extension, locking him up at the Eels until the end of 2021.

Brown, 25, emerged as one of the buys of the year in 2017, with Brad Arthur developing the former Wests Tigers and South Sydney discard into one of the NRL’s most consistent middle forwards.

After months of negotiations, Brown has agreed to terms on a contract extension which will see him remain at the Eels for the next four seasons.

The signature of Brown is a major coup leading into the Eels opening match of the year against archrivals Penrith at Panthers Stadium on March 11.

Round 20

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Nathan Brown added aggression to the Eels pack in 2017. Source: Getty Images

The local derby between the two western Sydney rivals promises to be one of the highlights of the NRL’s opening round of football starting Thursday March 8.

One of the most memorable hits of 2017 came courtesy of Brown, who floored Sydney Roosters enforcer Dylan Napa with a brilliant shot.

Aside from winning the prestigious Ken Thornett Medal in his debut season at Parramatta, Brown also won the Blue and Gold Army Members’ Player of the Year award.

The retention of Brown means the Eels now have the nucleus of their roster signed for this year and next season including Corey Norman, Mitchell Moses, Clint Gutherson, Bevan French, Michael Jennings, Tim Mannah and Brad Takairangi.

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