Leigh Leopards youngster makes Championship move after award-winning season

A highly-rated Leigh Leopards youngster has been touted to become a ‘top Championship performer’ after signing to a new club for 2026.

TJ Boyd has been named Leigh Leopards’ Reserve Team Player of the Year for the past two seasons and such impressive performances have seen him earn a move to the Championship, penning a one-year deal with Rochdale Hornets.

The Hornets finished sixth in League One in 2025 but they will be playing in an expanded second tier in 2026, with the Championship and League One competitions combining.

Rochdale have made a number of impressive signings in recent weeks with former Super League man Junior Sa’u agreeing to a one-year deal, whilst half-backs Jamie Dallimore and Jordan Paga have also signed at the club for 2026.

TJ Boyd isn’t the only Super League youngster to sign with Wigan’s Dylan Kelly-Duffy also agreeing to a deal with the Hornets, showcasing their ambition to compete in 2026.

Leigh Leopards back signs for Rochdale Hornets

News of Boyd’s signing with Rochdale was announced by the club on social media with the 21-year-old confirmed to a one-year deal.

Boyd is reportedly highly-rated by the Leopards and head coach Adrian Lam, something that Rochdale chairman Andy Mazey said of the Leigh recruit.

Mazey said: “TJ is very highly rated by Leigh and comes personally recommended by Stuart Littler, whose opinion on a player Gary Thornton and I trust.

“Adrian Lam also rates TJ, and at 21 we believe he still has loads of growth in him.

“He is a very exciting player, and I strongly believe he has the potential to become a top Championship performer.”

Boyd also spoke on the move, stating: “I’m very excited for the upcoming challenge and grateful for the opportunity,” he said.

“In 2026, I’m determined to show myself and everyone else that I am good enough to play at this level and even better.

“I’m looking forward to the journey this season will bring.”

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Leigh Leopards Reserve Player of the Year:

2024 🏆
2025 🏆

Now TJ Boyd is our 12th signing of the off-season 💪 pic.twitter.com/8QwzVTt3pk

— Rochdale Hornets (@RochdaleHornets) October 21, 2025