Leeds Rhinos news: overseas ace signs long-term contract extension as boss makes 'bigger & better' prediction

Australian prop Cooper Jenkins’ latest deal will keep him at Rhinos until the end of the 2028 Betfred Super League campaign. The 24-year-old had a season remaining on the terms he signed when he joined the club 12 months ago.

Jenkins made 24 appearances for the Rhinos last season after moving to the club from then-Queensland Cup and State Championship winners Norths Devils. Born in Newcastle, New South Wales, he trained with Brisbane outfit Dolphins at the start of the 2023 season and was being monitored by NRL clubs before opting to play in England.

Jenkins said: “My partner and I are very happy to be here until at least the end of 2028. We love the people, the club and the fans around here, so we’re stoked to be staying.

“I wasn't too sure what to expect when I first came over, but the club has put a lot of work into me and shown me a lot of faith, initially bringing me over here and then allowing me to show what I can do. I was happy to repay the club with a good year and help repay the fans by extending for a couple more years because it's our new home now and we love it.”

Rhinos have begun pre-season training and Jenkins is confident they will challenge for silverware in 2026. He observed: “Coming in last year we had basically a new roster, new coaches and it took a while for everyone to learn off each other. I feel like coming in this year we already have our base to build from and I feel like there's something special coming.

“It has been great coming over here and being in such a professional environment and playing tough footy. I’m thankful for the coaching staff and for them putting a lot of work into me; that's why I wanted to stay a lot longer.

“The fans are great, too, over here. I didn’t know how they were going to take to me and they really love their players over here. That’s a big reason why Leeds are such a great club, because of our fans. I love them and they were a big reason why I wanted to stay as well.”

Coach Brad Arthur expects Jenkins to make an impact over the next three seasons. He said: “Cooper has grown enormously since arriving and he’s only just getting started. He has bought into our standards and I am sure he will continue to work hard this pre-season to have an even bigger and better season in 2026.”

Rhinos sporting director Ian Blease hailed Jenkins as “a tremendous addition to our squad, both in terms of his performances and his presence around the group”. He added: “He embraced the challenge of Super League immediately and showed the mentality we want at this club.

“Securing him until at least 2028 is a clear statement of where we’re heading. He fits the culture we’re building, he has years of development still ahead of him and he genuinely loves representing Leeds. We’re thrilled he sees his long-term future here.”