Leeds Rhinos announced the appointment of Brad Arthur last week with the former Parramatta Eels boss taking charge until the end of the season. Arthur was present at the Halliwell Jones Stadium on Thursday night after stepping off the plane earlier that day and he’ll be determined to help Leeds build some momentum over the final 10 games of the Super League season.
Leeds Rhinos haven’t ruled out Arthur staying for next season and the Australian might just be asked for his opinion when it comes to recruitment for 2025, too. The Rhinos aren’t expected to be too busy, with the addition of Ryan Hall already confirmed. However, with David Fusitu’a and Rhyse Martin approaching the end of their current deals, they could see a couple of overseas quota spots freed up over the off-season.
With that in mind, here’s three off-contract NRL players who could be perfect for Leeds Rhinos next season.
Daejarn Asi (Parramatta Eels)
It’s fair to say Asi has played his best rugby under Arthur at Parramatta after struggling for game time at North Queensland Cowboys and New Zealand Warriors prior to his switch to the west of Sydney. Asi has been a semi-regular in the Eels’ side this season, making seven appearances with one try, a drop goal and seven goals coming along the way.
His goal kicking ability could make up for the loss of Martin, should the back rower leave, while his versatility could make him a real asset with Asi having the ability to play in the halves or outside backs.
He’s a Samoa international and at the age of 23, it’s fair to say his best years are still ahead of him. As mentioned above, Arthur hasn’t committed to next season but if he does that could feasibly be an important factor for Asi.
Can you name these former Leeds players?
Billy Burns (Cronulla Sharks)
After leaving St George last year, Burns signed a one-year deal with Cronulla. However, so far the second-rower has made just two appearances for the club off the bench.
Burns came through the ranks at Penrith Panthers, where he made 12 appearances and scored four tries before moving on to join the Dragons in 2021, where he spent three years and featured 29 times. With the future of Martin still hanging in the balance, Burns at 6’3” and 104kg, might be considered to be a suitable replacement.
Most of his game time has come in the NSW Cup this season, with the 25-year-old getting over the line six times in 14 appearances for Newtown Jets.
Tyrone Peachey (Penrith Panthers)
Peachey has been linked with Super League moves in the past and as he approaches the end of his deal with Penrith, he could be one player available to those clubs pushing to land overseas recruits. The loose-forward has struggled for first grade game time this season with just two brief appearances coming in the NRL, but he’s been in hot form in the NSW Cup, bagging eight tries in 14 games at the level.
With Cameron Smith nailing down the role, Leeds aren’t in desperate need of a new lock, but the addition of Peachey would give the Rhinos options heading into next season. The 32-year-old also has the ability to play in the halves or at centre, which may well come in handy.
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