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.
13. Rhyse Martin (no 12)
28 appearances, 10 tries 88 goals. A big loss, not just for his kicking; the departing Dream Team star had a fine, ever-present, season, leading the way in defence and scoring important tries 8. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
14. Cameron Smith (no 13)
27 appearances, 2 tries. Super League's top tackler, averaging more than 38 per game; had a better first half of the season than second as the captaincy looked like a burden 6. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
15. Jarrod O'Connor (no 14)
28 appearances (including 19 sub), 1 try. Durable, consistent and hard-working, gave the team a lift from either acting-half or lose-forward 7. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
16. Sam Lisone (no 15)
24 appearances (including 20 sub), 2 tries. Was effective in patches, but some poor moments let him down 5. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
17. James McDonnell (no 16)
26 appearances (including 2 sub), 2 tries. Very consistent and deserved his mid-season England call-up, though conceding 26 penalties blotted his copybook 7. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
18. Justin Sangare (no 17)
24 appearances (including 5 sub), 1 try. Had to learn a new role as a starting prop, needs to use his size and power more effectively 5. Photo: Bruce Rollinson