James McDonnell has been officially confirmed as a Perth Bears player for 2027 but the second-row forward has used his first words at the club to send a message to Leeds Rhinos’ fans.
McDonnell becomes the second Leeds Rhinos player to sign up to the project in Perth after centre Harry Newman became one of the first players to sign for the club, alongside Catalans Dragons’ Toby Sexton.
Sexton’s teammate at Catalans, Iszac Fa’asuamaleaui, is another to have signed whilst a pair of London Broncos’ 2026 recruits have also committed to the Bears.
Leeds had confirmed that McDonnell would be leaving the Rhinos for the NRL with Serious About Rugby League reporting that to be a move to Perth, and it’s now been announced by the Bears themselves that the 25-year-old forward has signed a two-year deal.
He’ll see out the 2026 season at Headingley before heading down under and he’s given his verdict.
Leeds Rhinos man explains Perth Bears move
Perth announced McDonnell’s signing alongside Cronulla Sharks’ Chris Vea’ila with both men penning two-year deals and both spoke on their moves.
McDonnell explained: “It’s been an ambition of mine to play in the NRL and I’m absolutely delighted to be given that chance with the Perth Bears.
“The NRL is the toughest competition in the world and I can’t wait to get over to Western Australia and test myself against the best of the best.”
The second-rower then pivoted his attention, sending a message and a vow to Leeds Rhinos and their fans, confirming his full commitment to the Headingley club.
“It’s great to know that Harry Newman and a few other lads from the Super League will be joining me,” said McDonnell.
“My focus is on giving 100% for the Rhinos this year but it’s exciting to think that in a year’s time I’ll have the chance to be a part of history.”
Head coach Mal Meninga praised McDonnell’s 2025 season, that saw him earn a spot in the Super League Dream Team, stating that he felt the second-rower ‘went to another level’.
McDonnell, like Newman, will hope to bow out at Leeds Rhinos with silverware, something Leeds have not won since 2020.
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