Leeds Rhinos sign Aussie Jack Bird: full details revealed including length of contract & potential debut
Leeds Rhinos have confirmed the signing of Australian former NRL Grand Final winner Jack Bird.
The 30-year-old, who was at AMT Headingley today and will watch tomorrow’s home game against York Knights, has signed a two-year deal after being released from his contract with Wests Tigers. Bird will wear the number 33 jersey and – as previously revealed by the Yorkshire Evening Post – is set to train with Rhinos’ reserves next week when the first team are in Las Vegas ahead of their Betfred Super League round four showdown with Hull KR. He could make his debut in the home derby against Castleford Tigers on Sunday, March 8.
“I’m really excited to be joining Leeds Rhinos,” Bird said. “It’s a huge club with a proud history and a passionate supporter base. I know a few of the boys; Brodie Croft and Keenan Palasia could not speak more highly of the club and I can’t wait to get stuck in.”
He added: “I am looking forward to being at AMT Headingley on Friday night for the game against York. I have heard so much about how great the atmosphere is and I’m looking forward to experiencing it for myself and then getting stuck into training over the next couple of weeks.”
Rhinos coach Brad Arthur is enthusiastic about what Bird will add to his squad. He said: “Jack brings toughness, professionalism and a high level of football intelligence. He has competed at the top level and understands what it takes to prepare and perform week-in, week-out. We’re confident he’ll add value to our group, both on and off the field and help drive standards.”
Sporting director Ian Blease hailed Bird as “a quality experienced player who will add depth and competition to our squad”. He said: “With Max Simpson sadly ruled out for the season following his knee injury, it was important for us to act quickly to ensure we remain strong across the backline. Jack’s ability to cover multiple positions and his big-game experience make him an excellent fit for Leeds Rhinos.”
Born in Wollongong, Bird can play at centre, in the halves and the back-row and has 173 NRL appearances to his name, including 17 last season, as well as five for New South Wales in State of Origin. He came through the St George-Illawarra junior system before making his debut for Cronulla Sharks in 2015.
Named Dally M rookie of the year in his first season, he played at centre when Cronulla beat Melbourne Storm in the 2016 NRL Grand Final. He joined Brisbane Broncos, where he was a teammate of current Rhinos duo Croft and Palasia, in 2018, moved to St George-Illawarra Dragons in 2024 and spent last season with Wests.