Warrington Wolves sign overseas back and released Leeds Rhinos man in double swoop

Warrington Wolves have added two more signings to their squad for 2026 including a former Leeds Rhinos man.

Sam Burgess’ side have made a handful of signings for 2026 already with Catalans’ Tevita Pangai Jr, Wigan’s Liam Byrne and NRL forward Toafofoa Sipley among them with the club appearing to have a clear directive to strengthen their pack.

They’ve now added one more man to it with recently released Leeds Rhinos man James Bentley confirmed, whilst also signing Queensland Cup star Josh Smith in the centres.

Bentley is well known to Super League fans with the Ireland international winning the competition whilst at St Helens before switching to the Headingley club.

Smith will be less well known but the 24-year-old has caught the eye down under, voted as Brisbane Tigers’ Player of the Year last year after an impressive campaign in the Queensland Cup.

Bentley has penned a one-year deal, whilst Smith has signed until the end of the 2027 season. Smith is the second centre signed after Canberra Raiders’ Albert Hopoate.

Warrington Wolves strengthen squad with double signing

News of the two deals was confirmed by Warrington Wolves with both men announced at once.

Bentley brings almost 120 Super League appearances and he was near ever-present for Leeds in 2025, playing 26 games before being released this off-season.

As for Smith, he has 77 appearances in the Queensland Cup and he’s proven to have an impressive try-scoring track record as well, grabbing 42 across his career including 25 in 40 across the last two seasons.

Speaking on his move, James Bentley said: “I’m really excited to be joining Warrington. It’s a fantastic club and I’ve had some tough battles against them over the years. The squad that’s coming together is really exciting. I can’t wait to get started and rip into pre-season, work with Sam to build my game, and do my bit to help the team have a big year.”

Australian Smith said: “I am very grateful and excited for the opportunity ahead of myself at Warrington and it is a move that definitely excites me, especially after talking to Gary and Sam about the club and the future aspirations.

“I have always looked at Super League from afar and been a fan of it, so this is an opportunity that I wanted to take with both hands, to challenge myself and also take my game to another level personally.”

Wire head coach Sam Burgess hailed the duo’s arrival, stating: “James is a fantastic addition for us at Warrington. He’s got great Super League experience, is a fierce competitor, and we’re looking forward to seeing the impact he can make within our playing group.

“Josh is an exciting centre with great potential. We’re looking forward to welcoming him into our group and for him to make his mark over here in Super League.”

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Warrington Wolves are delighted to confirm the double-signing of centre, Josh Smith and back-rower, James Bentley! 🐺

— Warrington Wolves (@WarringtonRLFC) October 30, 2025