Leeds Rhinos Star Watkins Set to Stay as Club Confirms Positive Retention Plans

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Leeds Rhinos have received a boost with Kallum Watkins set to extend his stay. The move underlines a wider retention strategy as the club balances experience with emerging talent ahead of another demanding Super League campaign.

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00:00Leeds Rhinos have received a major boost ahead of the 2026 season with star England ace Callum

00:07Watkins set to extend his stay at the club beyond his current deal. The 34-year-old who returned to

00:14Leeds from Salford Red Devils last April enjoyed a standout season earning a test recall to the

00:20Ashes series against Australia. Speaking of the Rhinos' pre-season media day coach Brad Arthur

00:26confirmed it's likely that Watkins will play on for at least another year a move the player himself

00:32is keen on. Watkins's commitment comes as part of a wider retention strategy with the club already

00:38securing new deals for Lachie Miller, Ash Handley, Keenan Palliser, Cooper Jennings, Jake O'Connor and

00:45Max Simpson. While a few players including Harry Newman and James McDonnell have moved to NRL clubs

00:51Arthur stressed the club remains confident in its core squad and the depth of young talent ready to

00:57step up. No coach, no staff member, no player is irreplaceable he said honoured in the importance

01:03of developing talent alongside maintaining experience. Felice Rhinos retaining Watkins and

01:10securing key squad members signal stability at a crucial stage balancing season performers with

01:16emerging prospects. As the Super League season approaches Rhinos fans can look forward to a blend

01:22of leadership, youth and depth laying the foundation for another competitive campaign.

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