Leeds Rhinos have sealed a new three-year agreement with budding outside back, Max Simpson, ensuring his presence at Headingley until at least the culmination of the 2026 Super League season.
Simpson, who first joined the Rhinos’ senior team in 2021, made his debut appearance last season, only to have his campaign prematurely halted due to an ankle injury suffered during a clash against Toulouse. Although he managed to regain fitness and feature for the Rhinos on Boxing Day, a subsequent ACL injury sustained during training forced him to undergo knee surgery, prematurely ending his 2023 season.
Despite these setbacks, the club has demonstrated unwavering belief in the young player’s potential by securing his services for the long term. A product of the esteemed Kippax junior system, Simpson expressed his appreciation, stating, “I had two more years after this and was hoping to push on after recovering from my injury, but it is great that the club has shown their commitment to me. When you are coming back from a long-term injury, you always have belief about what you want to do and what you have the ability to do, but when other people show that faith in you, it does mean a lot.”
Simpson acknowledged the gradual progress of his recovery, stating, “The injury is coming along slowly, but I just have to keep ticking the markers off. I feel that next season I should be flying on the back of a big pre-season. It is hard to always be positive when you are injured, but you just have to keep thinking about what you will be like when you are back on the field.”
Highlighting the camaraderie among the club’s young talents, Simpson noted, “We have got a few youngsters in the first team squad on similar deals to me in terms of their commitment to the club. A number I have come through the scholarship with or I have got to know in the first team squad, and I feel we have a tight bond between the young lads; getting to play in Super League with those guys is special,” added the 18-year-old.
Leeds Rhinos’ Head Coach, Rohan Smith, expressed confidence in Simpson’s rehabilitation progress under the guidance of the club’s medical and performance staff. Smith commented, “Max is working hard on his rehab now with our medical and performance staff, and I am sure he will come back in great shape. He is an exciting, young prospect who is well-liked within our group. I am excited to see him continue to progress in the coming years.”
The retention of Max Simpson presents an optimistic outlook for Leeds Rhinos, as they secure the services of a promising young talent, while he remains determined to make a resounding impact on the field once he fully recovers from his injury woes.
