Nine of the senior squad will be entering the final year of their contract when Betfred Super League kicks off in February. That includes seven who had a top-20 squad number in 2024, so sporting director Ian Blease, who is in charge of recruitment and retention, is facing a busy campaign and he – and the players – have big decisions to make.
Rival clubs aren’t allowed to approach players until May 1 in the final year of their contract, but after that they are effectively on the open market. Rhinos begin pre-season later this month. Here’s who will be out of contract at the end of the forthcoming campaign.
7. James McDonnell
The Wigan-born second-rower signed a new deal in January this year. He initially joined Leeds on a 24-month contract ahead of the 2023 season. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
8. Morgan Gannon.
A product of Rhinos’ youth system, the second-rower made his first appearance in April, 2021 and agreed a long-term contract 11 months later, when he was just 18. The 20-year-old didn’t play a competitive game this year, because of concussion. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
9. Tom Nicholson-Watton
The 21-year-old prop made his debut in Rhinos’ final game of 2023 and his current contract was announced in June this year. Photo: Steve Riding
10. Ryan Hall
The club legend, who made his debut in 2007 and turns 37 later this month, will rejoin Rhinos in pre-season on a one-year deal, but that is understood to include an option into 2026. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com