Rhinos’ unprecedented success from 2004-2017 was built around an exceptional group of players who had progressed through the club’s own system - and the current crop waiting in the wings are reckoned to be the best since then. Several have already had a taste of Super League, but there are others now starring for the under-18s and reserves who Rhinos expect to step up over the next few years. Here’s a team of young players from outside Leeds’ current top-20 squad numbers who could be wearing blue and amber at the top level in five years’ time.
13. Second-row: Jacob Stead
Another one who has impressed in academy and reserve grade and is expected to be knocking at the first team’s door within the next few seasons. Photo: Dan Hawkhead/Leeds Rhinos
14. Loose-forward: Presley Cassell
Aged 18, Cassell has been included in Rhinos' 21-man squad for several Super League games this year and could be the next academy graduate to make his first team debut. Seen by Leeds as a star of the near-future. Photo: David Harrison
15. Sub: Oscar Brown
The former Harrogate rugby union player joined Rhinos last September, has impressed at centre in the academy and second-string and can also play in the back-row. Photo: Dan Hawkhead/Leeds Rhinos
16. Sub: Jacob Hardy
A loose-forward who can also play in the outside-backs, Hardy has shown good potential in the lower grades. Photo: David Harrison
17. Sub: Joe Butterfield
One of the youngsters who has trained with the first team squad, the 18-year-old prop has two more years on his contract and has impressed in the lower grades this term. Photo: Tony Johnson
18. Sub: Max Simpson
Still only 20, the centre made four first team appearances in 2022, but has been sidelined for more than two years because of injury. He could make his comeback this week and remains a bright prospect, if he can regain form and fitness. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com