Kallum Watkins agrees contract extension with Rhinos

Leeds Rhinos and England Rugby League star Kallum Watkins has committed his future to the club by signing a one-year contract extension, keeping him at AMT Headingley for the 2026 Betfred Super League season.

Watkins, who returned to the Rhinos earlier this year, has been a standout performer for the club, showcasing his leadership and adaptability on the field. The new deal ensures he will continue to play a key role in the squad while also supporting the development of the club's emerging talent.

Expressing his joy at the new deal, Watkins, who played his 400th career game in last Saturday's win over Warrington Wolves, said: "I'm really pleased. I've come in and it's been amazing. I am very grateful for the opportunity to come in this year and now get an opportunity to do next year as well, which is amazing.

Reflecting on his return to Leeds, he added: "Things have gone pretty smoothly. The boys and the staff have made me feel comfortable. I know a lot of people around the club, from the staff to everyone who works at the stadium, and things have been really good. The club have treated myself and my family really well too.

Watkins, who has evolved his game since his first stint with the Rhinos, emphasised his determination to contribute to the team's success I wanted to come back here and do well that was important to me. I've had to change my game a little bit from last time I was here, but I've always had that strong ethic of working hard regardless of position.

"When the opportunity came to come back, I took it with both hands. I've got plenty of memories that can be shared over the years. I've always loved my time here, through the ups and downs.

Watkins revealed that discussions with Sporting Director Ian Blease included not just playing opportunities but also a potential role beyond his playing career: "When I first spoke to Ian Blease about the Rhinos, we spoke about the chance to play longer than this year and hopefully an opportunity when I'm finishing playing to start the next phase of my career. It's great to have that opportunity at such an amazing club, especially with how it's run.

"We've got the younger lads coming through, and I want to be part of that and help them progress. I'll continue playing for now and hopefully get the club where it wants to be, where it needs to be.

Looking ahead, Watkins is excited about the Rhinos historic trip to Las Vegas in 2026, where they will face Hull KR: "My family's excited for Las Vegas next year, the boys are as well. It's an amazing opportunity for the club, but also for Super League. Warrington and Wigan did an amazing job earlier this year and put a great game on. We'll do the same with Hull KR."

He also acknowledged the growing rivalry with Hull KR and the team's ambitions for silverware: "They have been outstanding over the last few years and won the Challenge Cup this year. We'll be pushing to try and win some silverware this year too. Taking this rivalry to Vegas will make it an amazing trip.

"Hopefully we can get as many people over there as possible. To see both sets of fans cheering in big numbers will make it an amazing event."

Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Brad Arthur said: "Kallum has been a pleasure to coach since he arrived at the club this season.

"He's a talented footballer who you can put him anywhere and he gets his job done. His attitude is first rate, whatever I ask him to do, he will do it to help the team win. He is a great example for our younger players but he is also an integral part of our team going forward."

Leeds Rhinos Sporting Director Ian Blease said: "Kallum has been a fantastic addition since returning to the club, bringing experience, leadership, and professionalism. His influence on and off the field is invaluable, and we're delighted he'll be with us for another season. His commitment to developing our younger players aligns perfectly with our long-term vision."