Leeds Rhinos have tied down yet another youngster to a new long-term deal, with full-back Fergie McCormack now staying at Headingley for the long-term.

The brother of departing centre Ned, ‘Fergie’ played five games for the Rhinos this season, with his debut coming against Widnes Vikings in Round Three of the Challenge Cup.

Playing three games in a row when Lachie Miller found himself suspended part way through the year, the 20-year-old showed up well and didn’t look out of place, scoring a try in an away win over Toulouse Olympique.

When Miller found himself injured at the end of the season, Brad Arthur opted to go for experience over youth in the number one role, and selected Ash Handley to replace the Australian. However, the Leeds captain then found himself injured too, so McCormack made his fifth and final appearance in the Super League play-off semi-final defeat to Warrington Wolves.

A product of the club’s youth pathway, McCormack joined the Leeds Rhinos Scholarship after beginning his rugby league journey with Guiseley Rangers and Dudley Hill.

He progressed through the Academy and was named Academy Player of the Year in 2024. He was named the club’s young player of the year for 2026, winning the Bev Risman OBE Award. 

With a contract now running until 2029, it is once again another show of Leeds’ support to their famous youth system, as the speedster joins the likes of Zak Lloyd, Oliver Smart and Ben Littlewood in signing new deals in recent weeks and months.

Leeds Rhinos tie down exciting full-back to new deal

“I’m really pleased to have signed a new deal and commit my future to Leeds Rhinos,” McCormack said after putting pen to paper. “This club has been a huge part of my journey so far, and I’m grateful for the opportunities and support I’ve had since joining the Scholarship.

“Making my senior debut and getting the chance to play in the first team has been a big moment for me. I know there is still plenty of hard work ahead, and I’m determined to keep improving, learn from the experienced players around me and make the most of every opportunity.

“Leeds is where I want to be. Playing at AMT Headingley in front of our supporters is something special, and I’m excited about what we can achieve together over the coming years.”

Boss Arthur added: “Fergus has shown a great attitude towards his development and has worked hard to put himself in a position to compete for opportunities in the first team.

“He has come through the club’s system, understands what it means to represent Leeds Rhinos and has demonstrated that he is prepared to learn and improve. His versatility is another positive, and he has shown he can step in and contribute when called upon.

Related Topics