Leeds Rhinos news: full details as signing of NRL ace Dylan Walker confirmed

Leeds Rhinos have confirmed the signing of former Australian Test and current NRL player Dylan Walker.

The Parramatta Eels man will join Leeds in 2027 on a three-year deal and is their second signing for next year after Morgan Gannon, who is returning to the club from New Zealand Warriors. Walker, 31, has more than 250 NRL games under his belt, having previously played for South Sydney Rabbitohs, Manly Sea Eagles and the Warriors. He joined Parramatta last year and is ever-present in 2026.

He also earned four caps for the Kangaroos early in his career and has played twice for New South Wales in State of Origin. Walker, who can play at centre, in the halves or as a forward, said: “Leeds is a massive club and it’s a new home. I’m really excited about the new challenge ahead and the experience that follows.

“I’m a competitor at the end of the day and love to win. Signing with Leeds is a privilege and I’m super excited to rip in and get among the boys, staff and fans.”

Leeds Rhinos have confirmed the signing of  Parramatta Eels veteran Dylan walker on a three-year contract beginning next season. Picture by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images.placeholder image
Leeds Rhinos have confirmed the signing of Parramatta Eels veteran Dylan walker on a three-year contract beginning next season. Picture by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images.
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Coach Brad Arthur enthused: “Dylan is a great professional and will be a good addition to our current group. We are obviously losing some experience from our pack next season with Cameron Smith, Mik Oledzki and James McDonnell moving on, but I am pleased we have been able to add Dylan to our group as well as Morgan Gannon returning to the club.”

Rhinos sporting director Ian Blease added: “We are really pleased to have been able to sign a player of Dylan’s experience and quality. He has enjoyed success throughout his career and won the NRL Grand Final in 2014 with South Sydney.

“Having spoken to Dylan at length he is so excited to pull on the Rhinos jersey. He has got a great work ethic, and skills, as we have seen with how he has transitioned from multiple backs positions into the forward pack and I know he will fit in well with the group for next season we are building. As a club we have had a real focus on retaining our best young players while adding in to the group at an elite level when the opportunity arises and is required.”

Leeds Rhinjos recruit Dylan Walker (with the ball) in NRL action for Parramatta Eels against St George-Illawarra Dragons. Picture by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images.placeholder image
Leeds Rhinjos recruit Dylan Walker (with the ball) in NRL action for Parramatta Eels against St George-Illawarra Dragons. Picture by Darrian Traynor/Getty Images.

Walker’s signing completes an encouraging 24 hours for Rhinos who are four points clear at the top of Betfred Super League following their 50-16 win against Bradford Bulls at Magic Weekend, despite an injury to winger Ryan Hall.

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