The youngster, a Republic of Ireland international at Under 19 level, is held in high regard by the coaching staff at Pride Park and manager Nigel Clough has been happy with his development since undergoing heart surgery at the age of sixteen.
"He has had to overcome some challenging hurdles but his attitude has been exemplary. He has shown to everybody he is an honest, brave and committed player who will put his head where some players would not even put their feet."
The 18 year old has featured in six of the Rams' league fixtures this season and has been surprised but grateful at the faith shown in him by Clough.
"My main target this year was to progress as a player, but things have happened at a much faster pace than I expected or even imagined. I still had a few years on my contract so when the manager talked to me about a new deal I was literally speechless. I can't explain how good it feels and I would have signed it there and then."
O'Brien only got his chance in the side after injuries to first team regulars; Shaun Barker, Jake Buxton, Chris Riggott and Russell Anderson, but it looks like they will have a fight on their hands to prise the shirt off him.
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