Former Wigan Warriors man to leave Leeds Rhinos to pursue NRL dream in 2027
Former Wigan Warriors forward James McDonnell will leave Leeds Rhinos at the end of the 2026 season to pursue his dream of playing in the NRL.
The 25-year-old is out of contract with Leeds at the end of the season and will pursue his ambition of playing in the NRL from 2027 onwards, having signed a two-year deal with Perth Bears.
McDonnell came through the youth ranks at hometown club Wigan before making his first-team debut in 2020.
After making six appearances for Wigan, as well as enjoying loan spells with York Knights and Leigh Leopards, McDonnell made the move to Leeds ahead of the 2023 campaign, where he has become an established Super League back-rower, whilst representing Ireland on the international stage.
McDonnell, who was named in the Super League Dream Team in 2025, will head to Perth ahead of 2027.
Rhinos sporting director Ian Blease said: “When we agreed a contract extension with James back in April last year, we knew James’ ambitions as a player, just like when he left his hometown club at Wigan to gain regular rugby at Leigh and then came across to Leeds to make a name for himself at the Rhinos.
"He has tremendous self-belief and drive, which, as a club, we have benefited from in recent years.
"I know he will give his all this season before moving on. We have both agreed to make a decision as early as possible in the year, so we can plan for 2027, and I am grateful that James has been up front at the earliest opportunity.
"He had an outstanding season in 2025, and I am expecting even better in 2026.”
Rhinos coach Brad Arthur added: “It is disappointing to lose James for 2027, but there is a long time to go between now and then.
"James is a great example, particularly for our younger players, of where hard work and dedication can take you.
"For those in the squad, they know there is a spot up for grabs next year and that should drive them on and likewise on Ian’s recent visit to Australia, there was a lot of interest from players about what we are building here in the Rhinos, so I have every confidence we can continue to build a strong squad for the future.”