Under coach Brad Arthur, Rhinos reversed years of stagnation and decline. After missing out in the previous two seasons, the eight-time Grand Final champions returned to the play-offs and fourth place was their highest finish in the table since 2017. They beat 10 or their 11 Betfred Super League rivals at least once and were winners at home and away against league leaders Hull KR and third-placed Leigh Leopards. There were also some low points and Leeds’ last-gasp play-off loss to St Helens will haunt fans and players for years to come, but overall it was a season of progress. As ever, the Yorkshire Evening Post was with Rhinos every step of the way. Here’s our look back on the season in pictures.
7. Controversy
Controversial moments in the season included Keenan Palasia's late sin-binning at Warrington Wolves in Super League's 5,000th game, in March. The hosts took advantage to score a late winner. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
8. Kallum Watkins returns
In April, six years after he left the club, Rhinos resigned their former captain Kallum Watkins from Salford Red Devils. He scored a try in the first appearance of his second spell, during a home win against Huddersfield Giants. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
9. Viva Las Vegas
Rhinos will take on Hull KR in Las Vegas next February, it was announced in May. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
10. St Helens hoodoo
Leeds lost four times to St Helens in five meetings and were knocked out of the Challenge Cup and play-offs by them. The exception was at Magic Weekend, in may, when Riley Lumb was among the scorers in Leeds' 17-4 win. Photo: Olly Hassell/SWpix.com
11. Ryan Hall's last-minute winner v Hull FC
Ryan Hall's last-gasp winning try got Rhinos out of jail at home to Hull FC in May. Photo: Alex Whitehead/SWpix.com
12. Party on the pitch
Rhinos fans were invited to party on the pitch at AMT Headingley following the win over Warrington Wolves in June. Photo: Steve Riding