Ex-Origin star signs with two NRL clubs in one go
Sydney Roosters star Connor Watson has officially secured his future for 2027 and beyond, signing with two clubs in one fell swoop.
The former State of Origin utility will link up with the PNG Chiefs for their inaugural 2028 season, but not before a one-year stint at the Dragons.
Connor Watson during NSW camp last year. Getty
The 30-year-old was originally signed until the end of next year with the Roosters, but the club granted him permission to negotiate with rivals early, allowing him to join St George Illawarra before his move to the Chiefs.
Watson had been heavily linked with the expansion franchise in recent weeks after touring the Port Moresby region with his partner, Kiana.
He becomes the third player to commit to the Chiefs, following inaugural signing Jarome Luai and the NRL’s all-time leading try scorer, Alex Johnston.
“Connor has made it clear from the outset that he wanted to be part of the PNG Chiefs and this incredible journey we are building,” general manager Michael Chammas said in a statement on Tuesday afternoon.
“He and his partner Kiana recently spent time in Port Moresby and genuinely fell in love with the country, the people and the opportunity to be part of something much bigger than football.
“Connor is the type of player every club wants. He is selfless, tough, professional and incredibly respected across the game. His versatility and experience will be invaluable for us as we continue building our squad towards 2028.
Connor Watson will leave the Roosters in 2027. Getty
“Every signing matters for a new club, but there is something exciting about seeing the roster continue to build piece by piece. Connor becoming signing 003 is another important moment in the journey of the PNG Chiefs.
“We also want to thank the Sydney Roosters for their professionalism, patience and understanding throughout this process.”
The club have also confirmed the signing of St Helens captain and England international forward Matty Lees for the 2028 season and beyond.
Watson’s addition to the Dragons squad for next year is also another boost for the club as they look to go from cellar dwellers and back towards the NRL finals.
Keaon Koloamatangi will join the club in 2027. CameraSport via Getty Images
Since landing the marquee signing of Keaon Koloamatangi on a bumper five-year deal in December, the struggling joint venture have since added Scott Drinkwater, Luke Metcalf, Phillip Sami and now an experienced utility in Watson.
Dragons chief executive Tim Watsford lauded the acquisition as one that will make the squad better, even if only for a short period of time.
“He’s a player who has performed in the game’s toughest arenas and we love what he brings to the table,” Watsford said.
“Connor’s a true professional and we’re confident that his addition, even if only for the one season, will make our team better.
“We’ve identified his combination of skill, athleticism, and versatility as something that can help us and we’re excited to see him in the Red V.”
St George Illawarra have yet to confirm who will coach the side in 2027, with interim coach Dean Young and former teammate Ben Hornby in the mix.
Watson’s departure from Bondi brings an end to his second stint with the club.
The fan-favourite debuted for the Roosters in 2016 and spent two seasons in the red, white and blue before moving to the Newcastle Knights for four years.
He then returned to the Chooks in 2022 and has become one of the most consistent performers, developing into a quality ball-playing forward.
