After a strong start, a string of disappointing results and performances led to coach Rohan Smith’s departure in June. His assistants Chev Walker and Scott Grix had a short spell as caretaker bosses and there were signs of improvement under new coach Brad Arthur, who arrived in July, but not enough to avoid another eighth-placed finish.
On the positive side, some players stood up to be counted and several young guns did well enough to suggest they have a bright future. As in 2023, Leeds used a total of 30 players, with two playing in every game. With time on the field taken into account, here’s how every player who made a first team appearance rated for the 2024 campaign as a whole.
7. Brodie Croft (no 6)
26 appearances, 8 tries, 2 drop goals. A class act; often playing behind a beaten pack, he was involved in most of Rhinos’ best moments 8. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
8. Matt Frawley (no 7)
26 appearances, 6 tries. A difficult first half of the season, but was probably the most improved player in his role as an organiser under Brad Arthur 6. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
9. Mikolaj Oledzki (no 8)
22 appearances, 0 tries. Rhinos’ pack was under-powered, but Oledzki gave it his best shot and looked to be regaining form and confidence late in the season 6. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
10. Andy Ackers (no 9)
25 appearances, 1 try. Had a spell as a sub, but showed better form after regaining his starting spot in the second half of the campaign 6. Photo: John Clifton/SWpix.com
11. Tom Holroyd (no 10)
6 appearances (including 1 sub), 0 tries. Promoted to number 10, but two long concussion layoffs wrecked his season 3. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
12. James Bentley (no 11)
15 appearances (including 10 sub), 2 tries. Missed 12 games through concussion, but reinvented himself impressively as a replacement ‘middle’ when he returned 7. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com