Leeds Rhinos strengthen back line with signing of Dragon Cotric

Leeds Rhinos have strengthened their back line for next season with the signing of Nick Cotric from Catalans Dragons on a four-year contract until the end of the 2030 Super League season. 

Cotric will follow Catalans team mate Edenn Rogers-Smith to the Rhinos after Leeds announced the signing of the forward earlier today on a two year deal.

The two players will join the Rhinos ahead of the 2027 campaign, strengthening Brad Arthur’s squad with experience in both the NRL and Super League, as well as further depth and versatility across the backline and forward pack.

The 27-year-old Cotric arrives at AMT Headingley on a four year contract with an impressive playing CV having established himself in the NRL with Canberra Raiders before moving to Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs and subsequently making the switch to Super League with Catalans Dragons.

Born in Canberra, Cotric came through the Canberra system and made his NRL debut in 2017. He went on to make 135 NRL appearances for the Raiders, scoring 63 tries, before a short spell with Canterbury, where he made a further 14 appearances.

He played for New South Wales in State of Origin, making his debut during the 2019 series, and has played international rugby league for Australia and Serbia. He was part of Canberra’s side which reached the 2019 NRL Grand Final.

Cotric joined Catalans ahead of the 2025 Super League season and has established himself as a regular in the Dragons' side, playing predominantly on the wing and at centre. He has continued to feature regularly in 2026.

Speaking about his move to Leeds, Cotric said: “I am really excited to be joining Leeds Rhinos and I am looking forward to getting started. Leeds is a massive club with a great history and a huge supporter base and I am really looking forward to experiencing that at AMT Headingley.

“I have enjoyed my time in Super League and I feel that I still have plenty to offer. The opportunity to work with Brad and the coaching staff and to be part of what Ian and the club are building was a big factor in my decision.

“I am coming to Leeds determined to work hard, contribute to the team and hopefully help the club challenge for trophies.”

Leeds Rhinos Head Coach Brad Arthur said the two signings would add important qualities to his squad ahead of next season.

“It is great to have both Nick and Edenn joining us for 2027. They are two different players who bring qualities that we believe will make our squad better.

“Nick has a huge amount of experience for his age. He has played at the highest level in the NRL, represented his state and country and has now had two seasons of Super League experience. He is strong, athletic and understands what it takes to perform at the top level.”

Sporting Director Ian Blease believes the pair fit the club's recruitment strategy as the Rhinos continue to build their squad for the 2027 season.

“We are delighted to have agreed deals with Nick and Edenn. Both players have different stories and different attributes, but we believe they are the right profiles for our squad.

“Nick's experience speaks for itself. To have played nearly 150 NRL games, represented New South Wales and Australia and then established himself in Super League shows the level he has operated at. He has also gained a good understanding of the competition and what is required to play here.

“There is still plenty of work to do between now and the start of next season, but these are two important additions to our squad and we believe both players can make a significant contribution to the Rhinos.”

Cotric and Rogers-Smith will link up with the Rhinos ahead of the 2027 Betfred Super League season. Leeds have already announced the return of Morgan Gannon to the club from New Zealand Warriors for 2027 plus the arrival of Dylan Walker from Parramatta Eels.