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.
19. Mickael Goudemand (no 18)
18 appearances (including 8 sub), 1 try. Lots of effort in various different roles; found it tough against bigger opponents and lost his place late in the season 5. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
20. Jack Sinfield (no 21)
4 appearances, 1 try. Did okay with his limited opportunities, but playing only once a fortnight in the reserves made it very hard 5. Photo: John Clifton/SWpix.com
21. Leon Ruan (no 23)
6 substitute appearances, 0 tries. Featured early on, but didn’t get much game time and ended the year on loan at Hull FC 4. Photo: Steve Riding
22. Luis Roberts (no 24)
13 appearances, 4 tries. Carried strongly and took his tries well, but faced a barrage of opposition kicks which inevitably led to mistakes 5. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
23. James Donaldson (no 25)
11 appearances (including 10 sub), 0 tries, 1 goal. A serious back injury disrupted his final Rhinos season, but when he was on the field he gave his all 6. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
24. Corey Johnson (no 26)
4 sub appearances, 0 tries. Never let the side down, but was clearly not going to be kept on next year and got too little game time to make an impact 3. Photo: Steve Riding