James McDonnell

James McDonnell (born 12 January 2000) is an international rugby league footballer who plays as a forward for the Leeds Rhinos in the Super League.

Background McDonnell played his amateur rugby league for Wigan St Judes.

Club career Wigan Warriors McDonnell made his Super League debut in round 14 of the 2020 Super League season for the Warriors against St Helens where Wigan went on to lose 42–0 against a much more experienced St Helens squad. McDonnell started the match playing at and became Wigan Warriors player #1106.

York City Knights (loan) On 14 May 2021 it was reported that he had signed for the York City Knights in the RFL Championship on one-month loan.

Leigh Centurions (DR) McDonnell spent the 2022 season on dual registration with Leigh Centurions.

Leeds McDonnell played 23 matches for Leeds in the 2023 Super League season as the club finished 8th on the table and missed the playoffs. McDonnell played 25 games for Leeds in the 2024 Super League which saw the club finish 8th on the table.

Perth Bears On 12 January 2026 it was reported that McDonnell had signed with the Perth Bears on a two-year deal at the end of the 2026 season.

International career McDonnell received his first international call up for the England Knights in early 2022. Later that year he was called up to represent Ireland in the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.