Super League Man of Steel Jake Connor says he wants to be part of “something special” at Leeds Rhinos after committing his long-term future to the club.
The Rhinos have handed their fans an early Christmas present by confirming Connor, whose previous deal was due to expire at the end of 2026, has signed a new three-year contract.
Connor joined Leeds from Huddersfield Giants 13 months ago on a two-year deal and had an outstanding first season, being named Leeds’ player of the year, selected in the Betfred Super League Dream Team and winning the prestigious Man of Steel award.
The 31-year-old was free to talk to rival clubs from the start of this month, but has ended speculation over his future and insisted the extension was a “no-brainer”.
He said: “I only signed originally for two years so I was coming into the last year of my deal and I am just glad to get something over the line and extend.
“We spoke about, when I first came here, there was a chance to play my way into the team and hopefully get the reward at the end of it with an extension. I love the club and being here, so it was a no-brainer for me to stay.”
Connor was signed as a utility player and wore the number 18 jersey in his first season.
After beginning the year at full-back, he switched to scrum-half following Lachie Miller’s return from injury and ended the campaign with a tally of 219 points, from eight tries and 93 goals, in 28 appearances.
“Being here has brought me back to my best,” he said. “I’m enjoying it and you can see that on the field.
“We want to create something special and I want to be part of it. It’s a lengthy deal and I want to repay the club for that. Hopefully, my best years are still to come.”
Jake Connor signs long-term extension at Leeds Rhinos
Former Hull FC man Connor was a surprise signing by Leeds after struggling to make an impact in a second spell with Huddersfield.
He reflected: “Looking back to this time last year, I am more settled now. I am playing the seven role and taking control of the team.
“I feel more comfortable doing that this year and we’re in a better place as a team moving forward.
“When I came to the club, all the staff and all the players wanted to help me get better. We want to create something special here and that’s why I decided to extend.”
The deal was negotiated by the Rhinos’ sporting director Ian Blease, who is now heading back to England from a recruitment mission in Australia.
He enthused: “Jake has shown exceptional maturity and leadership since arriving at the Rhinos.
“His ability to control a game, combined with his competitiveness and creativity, makes him one of the most impactful halves in Super League.
“This contract reflects the belief we have in him and the role he will play in driving this club forward.”
Coach Brad Arthur hailed Connor for his performances and attitude since joining Leeds.
He said: “Jake has been outstanding in how he has applied himself. He has taken ownership of the team, embraced the style we want to play and become a key voice in our group.
“He has consistently performed at the highest level for the Rhinos each week and securing his future is a big step for us as we build stability and a core that can grow together. We’re excited about what’s ahead with Jake leading us around the park.”
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