One of the the Tigers' recent drafting success stories, it's understood Lambert is on track to re-sign with the club.

Lambert, 24, was taken at pick 46 in the 2015 rookie draft, having forged a strong career in the VFL, first with the Northern Blues and then for Williamstown.

The midfielder/forward was elevated off the rookie list early last year, only to seriously injure a shoulder on debut against the Western Bulldogs in round two.

However he enjoyed a strong back half of the season, playing every game from his senior return in round 13 until year's end, including a solid showing in the elimination final loss to North Melbourne.

Lambert began 2016 brilliantly; he collected 28 disposals in the season-opener against Carlton. However after a serviceable opening month to the campaign, his season was interrupted when a collision during the round six match against Port Adelaide led to a cracked rib and punctured lung. Lambert spent time in hospital as a result of the incident.

He has been largely subdued since returning in round nine against Fremantle, but it's believed the Tigers have little doubt Lambert will remain at Punt Road in 2017.

Seemingly stuck in a mid-ladder rut, nearly half of Richmond's list remains uncontracted beyond this season.

While Corey Ellis and Nick Vlastuin penned new deals last month, restricted free agent Ty Vickery, David Astbury, Jake Batchelor, Troy Chaplin, Ivan Maric, Shaun Hampson and Ben Griffiths are all yet to re-sign with the Tigers.

Youngster Reece McKenzie announced his retirement on Thursday after battling mental health issues.

The Tigers, who were beaten by Collingwood in the race to lure Greater Western Sydney star Adam Treloar last year, have been linked to Gold Coast's Dion Prestia and Giant Jack Steele. Both players' deals expire at season's end.