Directors and sponsors took turns to line up alongside Rhinos’ senior players and staff. The official team picture also included 11 youngsters who have yet to make a first team appearance or be awarded a squad number. The rookies (all on the back row) were: George Brown, Fergus McCormack, Harley Thomas, Zak Lloyd, Jacob Stead, Joseph Butterfield, Oscar Brown, Oliver Smart, Marcus Qareqare, Harry Smith and Joe Diskin.
Rhinos will send a young side to Castleford Tigers for former Leeds treble-winner Brad Singleton’s testimonial game on Sunday and coach Brad Arthur plans to field his first-choice lineup six days later at home to Bradford Bulls in a benefit game for Cameron Smith.
Rhinos travel to either Thatto Heath Crusaders or Widnes Vikings in the Betfred Challenge Cup third round on the weekend of February 7-8 and their Super League campaign kicks off at Leigh Leopards on Friday, February 13. Yorkshire Evening Post photographer Jonathan Gawthorpe was at Rhinos’ media day. Here’s 16 of his best pictures.
1. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Leeds Rhinos' 2026 squad and staff, with chairman Paul Caddick, sporting director Ian Blease and director Alexandra Hulme on the front row. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
2. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Another pre-season almost done for Rhinos legend Ryan Hall. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
3. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Leeds Rhinos players, staff and directors pose for the annual team picture. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
4. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Coach Brad Arthur briefs the press on Rhinos' plans for 2026. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
5. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Brodie Croft has a laugh as he waits for Rhinos' team picture. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
6. Leeds Rhinos 2026 media day
Man of Steel Jake Connor leads the team out for Leeds Rhinos' annual pre-season picture. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe