Lewis Pearson: Exeter forward extends contract to 2026

Lewis Pearson was a swimmer in his youth and switched to rugby aged 15

Exeter Chiefs forward Lewis Pearson has extended his contract at Sandy Park.

The 24-year-old has agreed a deal with the Premiership club until the summer of 2026, having established himself as a first-choice lock this season.

He has played 38 times for the Chiefs in the past four seasons after making his debut in November 2018.

"I've come through the ranks at Exeter Chiefs which gives that added extra feeling to this news," Pearson told the club website.

"There's a lot of history at this club and I get a real joy out of what we do here so why wouldn't I want to continue being a part of all that?"

He is the second Exeter player to renew terms after fly-half Harvey Skinner, 27, committed himself until 2026 last week.

Exeter boss Rob Baxter thinks there is still room for Pearson, who has been one of the shining lights in a young Chiefs side that has surprised many this season, to get even better.

"I still think there's a good amount of development and improvement that can happen over time and with experience," Baxter said.

"He's been a very important part of how well we've done so far this season. He's taken responsibility for a lot of key areas of the game, such as the line-out, where he's become one of our main callers.

"I can only see him going from strength to strength. He's a really good guy and he's someone who is going to keep growing and be part of our future going forward."