Coach Brad Arthur used 30 players in as many competitive games with three of them not missing a match. Half-back Jake Connor was a Man of Steel nominee and the coaches’ choice as player of the year and both he and James McDonnell were included in the Betfred Super League Dream Team. Full-back Lachie Miller was Rhinos’ fans’ player of the year and his touchdown at Hull KR in July was voted the best try.
Fourth place on the table was an improvement of four places on 2024 and, though they fell at the first hurdle in the play-offs, Leeds beat 10 of their 11 rivals at least once, Catalans Dragons being the exception. Here’s how the YEP rated Rhinos’ players in 2025. Only those who made more than one appearance have been given a mark.
25. Ned McCormack (no 25)
One appearance. Not expected to feature at all this year because of a hamstring injury, so did well to get back and play a full game - Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
26. Max Simpson (no 26)
Three starts. After three years out, getting on the field was an achievement and the young three-quarter didn’t look out of place 6 Photo: Peter Smith
27. Ethan Clark Wood (no 27)
One start. A late pre-season addition, injuries denied the Aussie outside-back a chance to show what he can do - Photo: Matthew Merrick/Leeds Rhinos
28. Kallum Watkins (no 28)
18 starts, three sub, four tries, one goal. Outstanding signing a couple of months into the season; tough, experienced and versatile, the full works 8+ Photo: Steve Riding
29. Presley Cassell (no 29)
Three starts, four sub, two tries. At 18, got his first taste of top-flight action in the middle of the field and looked totally at home; set to become a big star sooner rather than later 7 Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
30. Chris Hankinson (no 31)
Eight starts, two tries, one goal. Up and down, but did okay overall after being signed late in the season to add experience to the outside-backs 5 Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe