THE SYDNEY Swans have shown their faith in Xavier Richards, re-committing to the young defender for the next two seasons as a senior-listed player.

Richards, the younger brother of Swans premiership full-back Ted, has played just one AFL game in his two seasons on the Swans' rookie list, coming on briefly as the Swans' substitute in round 14 against Carlton last year.

AFL.com.au understands Richards, 21, has agreed to terms to remain at the Swans to the end of 2016 and will be elevated to the senior list ahead of next season.

The 196cm defender has played 14 games with the Swans' reserves team.