Leeds Rhinos have announced the signing of former Huddersfield Giants man Jake Connor ahead of the 2025 Super League season. The England international was contracted for next season with the Giants, but he has put pen to paper on a two-year deal with the Rhinos.
Jake Connor has committed to the Leeds Rhinos until the end of the 2026 season, aiming to make a strong impact as he looks to regain his form. The 29-year-old has shown versatility throughout his career, playing both at full-back and in the halves, but it appears he may provide depth in the outside backs for Brad Arthur next season, with the possibility of filling a centre role.
Connor began his career with the Huddersfield Giants, making his Super League debut in 2013. He later moved to Hull FC, where he spent six years and won the Challenge Cup, before returning to the Giants ahead of the 2023 season.
Jake Connor, who has earned five caps for England and three for Great Britain, is eager to rediscover his best form and help Leeds Rhinos push for a playoff spot next season. After struggling to perform consistently for the Huddersfield Giants, Connor is looking forward to a fresh start under Brad Arthur.
Upon signing with the Rhinos, Connor expressed his excitement: “I can’t wait to get started with the club and get to meet the lads. I nearly joined the Rhinos a few years ago, so it feels like things have come full circle,” he shared with the club’s website.
Jake Connor acknowledged that some may doubt him as he embarks on this new chapter with Leeds Rhinos but emphasized that his focus is on earning the respect of his teammates and coaching staff during pre-season. “I know I will have people who doubt me, I’m used to that, but I will be working hard to earn the respect of my team mates and the coaching staff during pre-season, that’s all that counts,” he said.
Connor, who also coaches at amateur club Siddal, highlighted his passion for rugby league both on and off the field, adding, “I want to win. This is the biggest move of my career, and I am excited about what we can achieve over the next few years.”
Leeds Rhinos’ Sporting Director Ian Blease praised Jake Connor’s abilities and the potential impact he can have on the team, stating, “Anyone who has watched Super League over the last decade will know what Jake can bring onto the rugby pitch, in terms of skill levels and special moments in a game, especially when he is on the front foot.”
Blease also highlighted Connor’s versatility, adding, “For the Rhinos, Jake can play anywhere in the back line, and I am looking forward to seeing him as part of our squad and making his own mark within the team lineup going forward.” He expressed gratitude to Huddersfield Giants for their professionalism in finalizing the deal, ensuring a smooth transition for Connor.