Leeds Rhinos have released one of their forwards ahead of 2026 to allow him to take up a move in the Championship.
Toby Warren joined the Rhinos from York Knights in 2022, as he penned a four-year deal, highlighting his potential.
However, a combination of injuries and fellow youngsters being ahead of him in the pecking order meant that he never got a run out in Blue and Amber, despite featuring heavily for the reserves.
In 2025, he joined Salford Red Devils on a season-long loan, and became a regular in the side as their exodus of players continued throughout the year.
He made 15 appearances under Paul Rowley, and played in both the back row and at centre. The 22-year-old has also featured for Rochdale, York and Featherstone during his time at Leeds.
He leaves the Rhinos with 12 months remaining on that long-term deal he signed as a teenager, and will make the step down to the Championship for 2026.
Warren will join Midlands Hurricanes on a 12-month deal, as he looks to finally find a consistent role in the matchday 17.
The Birmingham-based outfit have made a number of big signings this off-season, and have also brought in fellow Super League youngster, Zach Jebson, following his exit from Hull FC.
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Leeds Rhinos forward released ahead of Championship move
The Hurricanes’ head coach, Mark Dunning, commented on Warren’s arrival, and has high hopes for his new recruit.
He said: “We’re delighted to welcome Toby and his family to our club and wider canes family.
“I have followed Toby’s journey since he burst on to the scene at York as a young 17-year-old. When we were made aware of his availability, I did some due diligence with people who have recently worked with him and the feedback was very positive.
“Having spoken to him in depth he clearly fits the demographic of people and athletes that were looking for. He’s a big athletic man who is still young who has been in a very good system at Leeds and gained valuable super league experience at Salford. He is still very keen to learn and develop, and we’re delighted that will be in our environment with a Canes shirt on.”
Warren believes that this move will be the start of a new chapter in his rugby league career, and is excited by the upwards trajectory his new side hope to continue.
“I’m really excited to join Midlands for 2026,” he said. “I want to get back to playing my best rugby and enjoying it, and I think Midlands is the place for me to do that.
“After speaking to Mark about his coaching style and the team’s ethos – as well as the plans for the club’s progression – it got me excited to join and contribute towards being part of something special.
“I’m looking forward to getting stuck in and making an impact in front of the club’s supporters.”
