Leeds Rhinos make Kallum Watkins’ contract decision

Leeds Rhinos have confirmed veteran star Kallum Watkins will play on with them next year.

The 34-year-old returned to Rhinos from Salford Red Devils two months ago on a deal until the end of this season and has now signed a contract with Leeds for 2026.

Watkins, who played his 400th career game in last Saturday’s 36-12 win against Warrington Wolves, came through Rhinos’ academy and scored 133 tries – plus 101 goals – in 259 senior appearances from 2008-2019.

After a spell with Gold Coast Titans in the NRL, he joined Salford during the 2020 season, but their financial crisis this year led to his exit in April and he has been ever-present for Leeds in their seven games since his return.

“I’m really pleased,” Watkins said. “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.

“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.”

What Kallum Watkins said after signing new Leeds Rhinos’ deal

A centre during his previous time at Rhinos, Watkins played the first two games of his return as a substitute and has been starting loose-forward in the last five.

He has also filled in at centre, in the halves and prop and stressed: “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.”

Rhinos sporting director Ian Blease is keen for Watkins to stay at Leeds after he hangs up his boots.

“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,” Watkins confirmed.

“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.”

Brad Arthur hails Kallum Watkins’ impact

Rhinos coach Brad Arthur hailed Watkins as “a pleasure to coach since he arrived at the club this season”.

He said: “He’s a talented footballer who you can put 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.”

And Blease enthused: “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.”