Jack Broadbent sends parting message to Leeds as exit door looms closer

Jack Broadbent has published what appears to be a parting message to Leeds with the exit door seemingly moving ever closer. 

The Rhinos academy graduate, 21, has made five appearances this season. He is out of contract come the end of the year and has been linked heavily with a move to Castleford.

Yesterday, he went out on loan to Championship promotion chasers Featherstone. That deal will last till the end of the season, and Broadbent’s Instagram post with the below caption insinuates that could well be that.

Insta’nt’ Departure

“What a rollercoaster it has been! I’ve been at the club 7 years and made so many amazing memories and friends that I’ll have for life.

Would just like to say thank you to Leeds for the opportunities they have given me, but feel it’s the right time to move on for me to keep moving forward.

“I wish the boys nothing but the best. I’m just looking forward to what the future holds and can’t wait to get stuck in at Featherstone till the end of the year.” (@jack_br04dbent)

Versatile, Broadbent is able to operate across various positions. He scored four tries for Leeds last season as they beat Leigh.

Batley-born, the youngster has previously been out on loan at his hometown club in 2019, featuring 11 times. The same year, he also appeared as a loanee for Featherstone, though that spell lasted just three games.

He is also an England Knight international, playing against Jamaica in 2021. Broadbent got two tries that night in a game played at Castleford.

Opportunities Limited

The 21-year-old’s last game was away at Salford in mid-May. Notably, that match also saw Rohan Smith head up Leeds for the first time.

The Australian boss is expected to comment on the departure in this afternoon’s press conference.

However, he has already told the Rhinos website, “We have recently welcomed back centre Harry Newman and full back Jack Walker from long term injuries.

“[As well as that], we have recruited Zak Hardaker, who can play centre and fullback for the remainder of the 2022 season which has limited opportunities for Jack.”

Broadbent’s second Featherstone debut come could this weekend. The Rovers host Batley this Sunday, one of only two teams to take points off them in the league so far this year.