It is fair to say that Leeds Rhinos have struggled with the transition since their so-called Golden Generation all hung up their boots.

Homegrown stars such as Kevin Sinfield, Danny McGuire, Rob Burrow and Jamie Jones-Buchanan were mainstays of the team for many years as the Headingley giants racked up eight Super League titles.

Life has been tough at times since the 2017 Grand Final win over Castleford Tigers, but the good news for Leeds fans is that their Academy remains a fertile breeding ground and is currently overflowing with promising youngsters.

Fergus McCormack, a 17-year-old stand-off, is rated as one of the most exciting young prospects in the British game. Here, Love Rugby League assesses his potential and career so far.

Background

McCormack is a local lad who has grown up playing league and union. Leeds spotted him playing the 13-a-side code for Guiseley Rangers and signed him into their Scholarship system.

The 17-year-old signed a full-time contract in November 2022 when he began training with the first-team squad. His first season at academy level, in 2023, ended with him being named under-18s player of the year.

On Boxing Day in 2023, he impressed off the bench in the 41-22 win over Wakefield Trinity in the Wetherby Whaler Festive Challenge.

This is McCormack’s second season as a full-time Rhinos player and he combines his playing commitments with his academic studies at Woodhouse Grove School in Bradford.