Prop Burgess – who had a year remaining on his existing deal – has signed a two-year extension which will keep him at Rhinos until the end of 2011.

Second-row/centre Ablett, 22, would have been out of contract this year, but has put pen to paper on a new one-year deal.

Burgess, 21, has made a big impression for Rhinos since breaking into the senior side five months ago, while Ablett is in his fifth season as a first team player and was a member of last year's Grand Final-winning 17.

Burgess' new deal is a setback for Bradford Bulls, who had been planning a move for the player at the end of next season.

"I had another year left on my contract, but it's nice to get things done early," said Burgess.

"Now I can just get on with the rest of this year and the next three years.

"It has been a good year and it's the icing on the cake to sign a new contract."

Burgess said he was "encouraged" the club were so keen to keep him on board.

He added: "It gives me confidence that the club and coaches are pleased with my progress and I am looking forward to concentrating on my rugby and helping the team to win some silverware.

"The coaching staff have been brilliant with me. Brian McClennan, Francis Cummins and Willie Poching have helped me to develop my game and our conditioner, Jason Davidson, has got me in great shape and kept on at me all year to improve my fitness.

"I have done a lot of one-on-one work with Francis Cummins after training and he and Willie work with me on the weak areas of my game.

"Brian has been a massive influence on me, given me a lot of confidence and taught me great things."

Ablett, pictured, declared himself "really pleased" to be staying at Leeds for another year.

"Hopefully I can build on this season in 2009," he said.

"I have been playing a lot at centre this year, which has helped to develop different aspects of my game and I am happy to play wherever the coaching staff feel I can best help the team.

"I am still only 22 and I am hoping to continue to learn and develop at the Rhinos."

Head coach Brian McClennan said: "This is terrific news for the club. To secure two of our top young rising stars is great news.

"Luke has had a great year to date in his first season in the top grade and his potential is enormous.

"The club's policy is to keep people like him on board and to progress talented young players through the ranks.

"Those who work hard and achieve are rewarded with upgraded and extended contracts and I think that is the right way to do things.

"Luke has been through our academy system and that has come to fruition in the first team this season.

"Hopefully he will keep improving and turn into a top Super League player.

"Carl has shown terrific versatility this year because of injuries.

"He has shown that in the centres but is still only young.

"We know he will keep on improving and it is good to have him on board for next season."