Morgan Gannon at halfback could work
One of the most fascinating developments to come out of Headingley in the off-season is the news that Morgan Gannon is training to play at halfback. You'd imagine nobody, Rohan Smith excluded, anticipated that happening. However, Gannon, a back-rower by trade, had a run out in his new position against Wakefield. Boxing Day was the first time the teenager has played in the halves since the under 13s. And, in fairness, that was apparent at times, but that was to be expected. His kicking game was wayward and his decision making not always on point. All that said, there was enough evidence to suggest the Rhinos might be on to something.
Gannon certainly brought a running threat, scoring a try in the process, and there's no questioning his defensive ability. If you were making an opinion based on just one outing you'd argue it won't work, but there's a lesson to be learned from Jarrod O'Connor, who had a challenging start to life at hooker but ended the season as first-choice, playing in a Grand Final. It's certainly a case of watch this space when it comes to Gannon's career in the back-row.
Rhinos have pack power
For a few years now, it's felt like Leeds have always needed an extra forward to provide depth in the middle. That issue has now been resolved. One glance at Leeds' prop options quickly demonstrates that Smith has a lot of options in that department, and choosing between them won't be easy. Against Wakefield, Justin Sangare and Tom Holroyd both put their front foot forward as they produced promising performances, both impressing in patches during the game.
Read more: Leeds Rhinos injury update as Rohan Smith provides information on trio after Boxing Day loss
Sam Walters is another keen to progress after making improvements last year too. When you then throw England's Mikolaj Oldezki, marquee player Zane Tetevano and new NRL recruit Sam Lisone into the mix, Leeds' pack is... packed with options. The challenge will be deciding who misses out, but that's not a bad position to be in.
Youngsters still coming through nicely
Leeds are renowned for bringing through youth and there's no sign of that slowing down now. Boxing Day has always provided youngsters a taste of senior action and many on show yesterday did their prospects no harm. It was new recruit Leon Ruan who perhaps stood out the most with an eye-catching display but others, such as Mackenzie Turner and Tom Nicholson-Watton also impressed during their respective stints on the field.
All three had their difficult moments but that's to be expected as they adapt to the standard and increased physicality. It's unlikely that we'll see much of the teenagers that were on show this season, but it's reassuring for the Rhinos to know the next crop is coming through.
Read next
Four Wakefield Trinity standouts after Boxing Day victory over Leeds Rhinos
Four Leeds Rhinos players who impressed during Boxing Day defeat including debutants
Highlights as Leeds Rhinos fall to Boxing Day defeat against Wakefield Trinity
John Bateman transfer fee revealed as Wigan Warriors provide recruitment update
Rugby League's bucket list: 20 things every fan should do before they die
