West Coast forward Jake Waterman says signing a long-term deal was a “massive weight off the shoulders” as the Eagles confirmed his contract extension that has him locked away until the end of 2029.

As exclusively revealed by The West Australian last month, the Eagles have torn up the final year of Waterman’s two-year contract he signed last year to ink a five-year extension.

It comes on the back of a career-best season for Waterman, 26, who kicked 53 goals from 20 games and finished third in the John Worsfold Medal count.

“It’s an honour to sign a long-term contract at a great club like West Coast,” Waterman, who is the son of dual premiership player Chris, said.

“Massive weight off the shoulders. There’s been a bit of speculation for a couple of months now and a long-time coming, so I’m happy to get it done.

“I know there’s a process with these things and between my management and the football club they were working away to get that done as soon as they could.

“Now it’s finally done it’s reality now and I’m just happy that I’m locked away here for the next five years.

“I’ve grown up walking the halls of family homes and having the Eagles colours plastered all over the wall and, although there was that speculation earlier in the year, I had my heart set on staying here.”

Waterman had interest from both Melbourne and Geelong, with the former offering up to five-years to lure the 26-year-old forward east.

The deal will have Waterman earn close to $1 million a season, making him one of the highest paid players at the club.

“Jake’s resilience to bounce back from serious illness has been well-documented and it was terrific to see him recognised for an outstanding season by earning selection in the All-Australian team,” Eagles football boss Gavin Bell said.

“He has always had the talent and work ethic, and he grabbed the opportunity to play in a deeper forward role last season after regularly playing further up the ground during the earlier stages of his career.

“We are delighted he has committed to the club long-term and we look forward to seeing him continue to grow as a player and continue developing as a leader of our squad.”

Waterman has played 104 games for the Eagles since being drafted with pick No.77 in 2016 as a father-son.