After a promising pre-season, Rhinos won only one of their opening six matches and were heading towards a relegation dogfight when Richard Agar stepped down as coach in March.
Just one win from their first 10 games made it the worst start to a campaign in the club’s history, but interim-boss Jamie Jones-Buchanan steadied the ship and Rhinos were transformed under new coach Rohan Smith.
The Australian, whose uncle Tony Smith masterminded Rhinos’ 2004 and 2007 Super League triumphs, won 13 of his 19 games in charge and took Leeds all the way to their first Grand Final in five seasons.
It was a year which saw experienced players come and go – Zak Hardaker doing both – and some highly promising youngsters gain a first taste of top level action.
There was also success for Rhinos’ academy, women’s and physical disability sides.
The Yorkshire Evening Post chronicled it all. Here’s a pictorial review of an unforgettable 12 months.
. Debut to forget
James Bentley, Leeds' off-season signing from St Helens, was sent-off during his debut as Rhinos' Betfred Super League campaign began with a 22-20 home defeat by Warrington Wolves on February 12, live on Channel 4. Richie Myler hobbled off injured at the same time. Photo: Tony Johnson
. In the pink
Rhinos' first win of the season came at the fourth attempt, away to Wakefield on March 3. Harry Newman was among the try scorers, but a hamstring injury wrecked his campaign. Photo: Jonathan Gawthorpe
. Agar's exit
Richard Agar resigned as coach on March 21, in the wake of Rhinos' 26-12 defeat at Salford. That was their fifth loss in the opening six games as Leeds made the worst start to a season in the club's history. Photo: Simon Hulme
. JJB steps in
Performances and team spirit improved during Jamie Jones-Buchanan's six-game spell as Rhinos' interim-coach. Jones-Buchanan, centre of picture, signed off with a home win over Hull KR on April 29. That was his second victory and he also picked up a draw, along with three defeats. Photo: Allan McKenzie/SWpix.com
. A new era
Rohan Smith, left, arrives at Salford for his first game as Rhinos coach, on May 15. Leeds were beaten 23-8, but things quickly turned around under the new boss. Photo: John Clifton/SWpix.com
13. Winner takes all
Rhinos faced Castleford at Headingley on September 3 in a final round battle for the last play-off place. Tigers led 8-0 with eight minutes left, but a penalty and converted try levelled matters and Aidan Sezer touched down with the last play to snatch a 14-8 success. Photo: Bruce Rollinson/SWpix.com
14. To Old Trafford, we're on our way
A sensational defensive effort underpinned one of Rhinos' greatest wins, a 20-8 success at Wigan in a Super League semi-final on September 16. Picture Bruce Rollinson Photo: Bruce Rollinson
15. Champions!
Rhinos were crowned Betfred Women's Super League champions after a superb 12-4 win over league leaders York in the Grand Final at St Helens on September 18. Theyn were also Challenge Cup runners-up. Photo: John Clifton/SWpix.com
16. Grand Final dismay
A tearful Harry Newman, who missed the final through injury, with James Bentley at full time after Rhinos' Grand Final defeat by St Helens on September 24. Photo: Bruce Rollinson
17. Wheel stars
Rhinos' wheelchair side had a superb season, winning the Challenge Cup, topping Super League, but losing to Halifax in the Grand Final. Leeds' Tom Halliwell went on to captain England's World Cup-winning side. Photo: Will Palmer/SWpix.com
18. New faces
Rhinos had a major turnover of players at the end of the campaign. One of their new signings, James McDonnell, was among the try scorers against Wakefield on Boxing Day. Photo: Steve Riding