In a layered player transfer deal that links three National Rugby League (NRL) clubs, versatile utility Connor Watson has secured an early release from the final year of his contract with the Sydney Roosters, clearing the way for a multi-stage move that will see him join the St George Illawarra Dragons in 2027 before linking up with the expansion Papua New Guinea (PNG) Chiefs for their historic inaugural 2028 NRL season.
Watson, a former New South Wales representative who has built a reputation as one of the league’s most adaptable and team-first players, had been contracted to remain with the Roosters, widely known as the Tricolours, through the 2027 season. The early release approval will see him suit up for the Dragons (nicknamed the Red V) for a single 2027 campaign before his two-year deal with the PNG-based expansion side kicks in.
The PNG Chiefs, who are preparing for their first ever NRL season in 2028, have now secured three high-profile marquee signings to build their foundational roster, following earlier acquisitions of star playmaker Jarome Luai and veteran winger Alex Johnston. Chiefs football general manager Michael Chammas emphasized that Watson’s commitment to the expansion project runs deeper than just a playing contract.
“From the very start, Connor made it clear he wanted to be part of the PNG Chiefs and the incredible journey we’re building here,” Chammas said in a statement confirming the signing. “He and his partner Kiana recently visited Port Moresby, and they genuinely fell in love with the country, the people, and the chance to be part of something far bigger than rugby league itself.”
Chammas highlighted Watson’s intangible and on-field value for the fledgling club, noting: “Connor is exactly the type of player every organization wants to build around. He’s selfless, tough, relentlessly professional, and commands incredible respect across the entire league. His versatility and years of top-flight experience will be absolutely invaluable as we continue putting our squad together for 2028. Every signing matters for a new club, and there’s something really exciting about watching this roster come together piece by piece. Locking in Connor as our third major signing is another key milestone in the PNG Chiefs journey. We also want to thank the Sydney Roosters for their professionalism, patience, and understanding throughout this entire process.”
For the St George Illawarra Dragons, Watson’s one-season stint comes at a critical time, as the club is set to lose veteran starting hooker Damien Cook to the UK’s Super League ahead of 2027. Dragons chief executive Tim Watsford said the club is eager to add Watson’s proven quality to their roster, even for just one season.
“We’re incredibly excited to welcome Connor to the club next year,” Watsford said. “He’s performed at the highest level in the toughest competitions the game has to offer, and we love everything he brings to our group. He’s a true professional, and we’re confident his addition, even for one season, will make our entire team better. We’ve identified that his combination of skill, athleticism, and versatility fills key gaps for us, and we can’t wait to see him in the Red V.”
This structured one-year “layover” arrangement follows a similar model used in other recent NRL transfers, including deals for Jonah Pezet at Parramatta Eels and Davvy Moale at Melbourne Storm for the 2026 season. For the Roosters, the early release also creates valuable salary cap space, with the club widely expected to finalize the signing of North Queensland Cowboys winger Murray Taulagi in the coming weeks.
In an official statement confirming Watson’s release, the Roosters said: “The Sydney Roosters today announced that Connor Watson has been granted an early release from the final year of his contract following a request from his management, allowing him to pursue an opportunity with another NRL club. Watson will remain with the Roosters for the remainder of the 2026 season and will continue to play an important role within the club’s NRL squad.”
Watson’s arrival adds to a busy offseason of recruitment for the Dragons, who have already locked in other key 2027 signings including Luke Metcalf, Keaon Koloamatangi, Scott Drinkwater and Phil Sami.