Leeds Rhinos have confirmed the signing of former NRL Grand Final winner, Jack Bird, but his place in the team is not as straight-forward as it looks.
Bird, a former Wests Tigers man, joins the Rhinos on a two-year deal, and is a versatile option that provides quality experience and squad depth.
The ex-State of Origin representative has played the majority of his career in the centre, but he can also cover the halves and the back row.
Rhinos boss Brad Arthur spoke for the first time about his capture, and why the club felt now was the right time to bring him in.
“It’s good. A guy with his experience, and he’s coming for the right reasons, which helps.
“It was unfortunate for Max [Simpson] with his [season-ending ACL] injury, but he’s freed up just a little bit of room in the cap. Jack’s come for the right reasons because we didn’t have much room, so that’s what really pleases me.
“He’s experienced, and he’s a big game player, it can only help strengthen the competition for spots in the team.”
Bird’s CV would put him up there as one of the better three-quarters at the club, however things aren’t as simple as that.
Harry Newman and Ash Handley are the two starters, though the latter is currently nursing a groin issue, whilst Chris Hankinson and Ned McCormack have also shown signs in 2026 that they are worthy of a place in the side.
Asked where he thinks Bird could play, Arthur answered honestly, saying: “I’ve got no idea yet.”
He then went on to praise former Salford man Hankinson for his efforts since he arrived at the club.
“Hank is one of those guys, you know, when we’re doing the jersey numbers at the start of the year, he was the conversation I was most nervous about because he deserves to have a spot.
“I said to him, he’ll be in the 17 every week, I just don’t know where.
“I’m just waiting until we get to the game and work out where he plays, but he’s such a good team player, such a good club person, and he’s so valuable.
“Jack doesn’t play for another couple of weeks, so I’m going to worry about it when he gets closer.”
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