Steele will take the captaincy solo after sharing the leadership role with Jarryn Geary in 2021.

Geary, after two injury-interrupted seasons, opted to not seek the role again, with the Saints appointing Steele to the captaincy on Friday.

"I'm incredibly proud ... it means the world to me," the 26-year-old Steele told the club's website.

"Holding the role by myself this year will be a challenge but one I feel I'm ready to face thanks to the support of so many great people around me, especially Jarryn.

"Jarryn has been a massive influence on me since I walked into the club and his guidance and support has been invaluable these past few years.

"I look forward to learning more from him and others throughout the year."

Saints coach Brett Ratten said Steele had proven his leadership credentials last season when Geary was out injured.

"We all saw it last year, but the way Jack was able to lead by example and bring his teammates along with him was outstanding," Ratten said.

"Although he was forced to lead the side on his own in Jarryn's absence, he really shouldered the responsibility."

Tim Membrey and Dougal Howard will be joint vice-captains for the second consecutive season with Callum Wilkie and Geary included in a revamped leadership group.

Australian Associated Press