Rhinos improved two places from fourth in 2025 to second on the Super League table and were top of the pile for much of the campaign before dropping away in the final four weeks. Though a controversial semi-final defeat by Warrington Wolves cost them a place at Old Trafford, Leeds had six players selected in the Dream Team and Jake Connor was a Man of Steel nominee.
Over the course of the year Rhinos used 30 players in all competitions with two of them, forwards Kallum Watkins and Cooper Jenkins, being ever-present. Taking into account the number of matches played, here’s how everyone who made a senior appearance for Leeds this year rated out of 10.
13. Second-row: James McDonnell (no 12)
Merited his Dream Team place, was ultra-reliable and hard working in defence and chipped in with a dozen tries 8 Photo: Matthew Merrick/SWpix.com
14. Keenan Palasia (no 13)
Had a very good first half of the season before a long spell on the sidelines with a foot injury 7.5 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
15. Chris Hankinson (no 14)
A revelation after switching to second-row early in the season, his 12 tries were a handy bonus 7.5 Photo: Steve Riding
16. Cooper Jenkins (no 15)
Looked a bit weary in the second half of the campaign, after a very good start, but going through ever-present was a notable achievement 7 Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
17. Ethan O’Neill (no 16)
Played only three times - and wasn't terrible - before being released just months into a three-year contract 4 Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
18. Cameron Smith (no 17)
Playing a new role off the bench, had one of his best seasons in his farewell campaign and scored some cracking tries 7.5 Photo: Steve Riding