Michael Johnson has played with Luke McPharlin for more than a decade but says he is still learning from the 2012 All Australian.
The experienced pair has been crucial to Fremantle’s undefeated start to the year.
They have played a combined 444 games of AFL, with Johnson set to line up for his 200th game on Friday night.
“He’s (McPharlin) is a fantastic defender and it’s just great to play alongside him,” he said.
“Luke has been fantastic for the whole group, not just the defenders.
“I’ve played over 12 years and I’m still learning from Luke.”
I would have done the same as Goodes - Michael Johnson
Both have played on some of the competition’s biggest forwards this year, with fellow defenders Zac Dawson and Alex Silvagni sidelined with injuries.
Johnson, who signed a two-year deal with the club earlier this season, said he was playing his best footy at 30.
“Over the last few years I think I’ve played my best footy,” he said.
“It’s great to see the club has confidence in me, as I turn 31 later this year, they’ve signed me up for another year.
“I hope I can still contribute on and off the field and keep developing as a player.
Fremantle play Richmond at Domain Stadium on Friday 5 June. Bounce down is at 6.10pm.