Leeds Rhinos announce new contracts for 15 young prospects including 4 Super League players

Rhinos say the deals - for players ranging from academy first years to full-time squad members - are a “significant investment in the club’s talent and long term planning”. Among those committing their immediate future to the club are winger Riley Lumb, centre Ned McCormack, full-back Alfie Edgell and prop Tom Nicholson-Watton who have all featured in Betfred Super League this season.

Loose-forward Presley Cassell, who joined the club this year and is set to make his England academy debut against France next week, has signed the longest contract, keeping him at the club until at the end of the 2028 season. Club sporting director Ian Blease said: “Leeds Rhinos has always been proud of its track record of not only developing quality young talent, but also giving opportunities for them to play at the highest level.

"You only need to look at the contribution of Alfie Edgell and Ned McCormack in last week’s win over Leigh to see that continues to be the case. This next generation will be hoping they too can make their mark and follow in the footsteps of fellow Rhinos Ash Handley and Harry Newman, who are both academy graduates, in the England squad this weekend.”

He added: “On behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to thank all staff who have worked on the development of these young players thus far. Their tireless dedication over the years has led up to this commitment by the club along with the support each player has received from his family and community club.”

Head of youth John Bastian hailed a “significant commitment by the young Rhinos players and the club”. He said: “This is a group of talented young men who cover all positions and have time to develop in the Super League squad and push hard to compete for a starting position in the years ahead.”

Here’s the full list of players, including their age, position, community club and how long they have signed for.