Leeds Rhinos will lose a second player to the NRL in 2027, as James McDonnell exits the club to move down under.
Joining Harry Newman in making the move to Australia, McDonnell has become another signing for NRL new boys Perth Bears, who are set to enter the competition in 2027.
The back rower has been at the Rhinos since 2023, and has been a consistent member of the weekly 17. Scoring nine tries, he made the 2025 Super League Dream Team, and was in contention for a place in the England squad, but missed out on selection.
His exit is bittersweet for most Rhinos fans, who understand his decision to better himself and his career, but at the same time it is a big blow to the Rhinos set-up.
The Headingley faithful reacted to both the initial news of McDonnell exiting and the confirmation of his move to Perth with comments coming after Serious About Rugby League reported the news.
Leeds Rhinos fans react to James McDonnell exit
Nigel Oddy: Don’t blame him but for me he’s a bigger loss than Newman
Matthew Butterfield: Big loss that. A bit disappointing he hasn’t repaid Leeds faith in him but you can’t blame him for wanting to test himself in the NRL
Ian Farmer: Sad you’re leaving with Harry but good luck for your futures.
Comments from the Leeds Rhinos Facebook also surfaced, with fans all in the same boat as to their star man’s impending exit.
Mark Douglas: Can’t blame a 25 year old guy for wanting to test himself in the NRL? Just reinforces the risk to our game as the NRL expands and gets stronger. Best of luck to him and hopefully he leaves Headingley with a GF winners ring.
Nick Borras: Good luck to the lad he’s an absolute workhouse and reminds me of Carl Ablett. The fact he’s going to the NRL shows how much he’s progressed at Leeds. 2027 will present an opportunity for someone like Littlewood or Cassell to play more first team.
Damien Pearson: If it doesn’t work out in the NRL he’ll always be welcome back. Can’t stop players who have ambitions to play at the highest level.
Maureen Burns: Young man needs to follow his dreams he will regret it if he doesn’t try. Good luck James will look forward to watching you in your ladt season with the Rhinos
Sam Wilson: Will do well done under. Tough gritty forward, sad to see him go
Martin Cocksedge: He will be a huge loss but you can’t blame the lad, it’s a short career and he needs to grab every chance he can.
