Confirming the news this afternoon, Head Coach Leo Cullen said, "I think this is a great opportunity for Kevin. He had an unlucky run with injuries last season and I know he is very keen to hit the ground running this season.
"This is by no means a new role for him and we saw last season what he brings to the table in terms of his captaincy. He has really driven the environment during the pre-season and he is a great role model for the younger players and indeed the wider squad."
McLaughlin last played for Leinster in last December's 21-11 win in the RDS against Connacht but had to come off with a shoulder injury. That same injury required surgery and effectively ruled Kevin out for the season.
"Kevin is a player who leads by example with little regard for his own body and he epitomises everything we want to see from a Leinster Rugby team going forward," Cullen added. "He is selfless, puts team first and is always driving his own standards as well as the standards of those around him."
McLaughlin, who has eight Irish caps to date, has won two Heineken Cup trophies with Leinster starting in both final wins over Northampton Saints and Ulster Rugby. He has also won an Amlin Cup and three PRO12 titles with the province.
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