Sam Walters says it was time for a new challenge after Wigan Warriors confirmed the capture of the Leeds Rhinos forward. The towering forward, who scored twice in the Rhinos' most recent win over Huddersfield Giants, has signed a three-year deal with the club.
As first revealed by Rugby League Live, Walters rejected a deal to stay at Headingley to take up a deal with the Warriors, where he will move for the 2024 season. Walters has played 33 times for the Rhinos since his debut in 2020.
Explaining his decision to make the move, the 22-year-old said: “I am looking forward to joining Wigan Warriors next season. To be part of such a successful team is exciting and I can’t wait to develop my game and become a small part in future success. Thank you to Leeds Rhinos for the last few years but I felt the time was right for me to take on this challenge."
Walters found himself in and out of the Leeds team earlier in the season, which is believed to have been a source of frustration. However, he has more recently been playing weekly in Rohan Smith's side.
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Head coach Matt Peet added: "Sam has the skill and stature to play through the middle or as a back rower. We look forward to welcoming him and supporting him to fulfil his undoubted potential.“
It's the second signing Wigan have confirmed in less that 24 hours. On Sunday evening they confirmed the signing of Kruise Leeming, who will join the club in 2024 after a short stint in the NRL with Gold Coast Titans, where he has made six appearances.
As for Leeds, they are also set to lose Liam Tindall to Hull FC but are reportedly close to signing a deal with Catalans Dragons forward Michael Goudemand.
