NRL 2021 transfer news: Connor Watson signs with Sydney Roosters

[Horry]

Connor Watson has made a decision on his playing future.

The in-demand utility has rejected a contract extension at Newcastle and will instead re-join the Roosters from next year.

Watson had a host of clubs after him but in the end it was left to a choice of two – stay at Newcastle or return to the Roosters where he made his debut.

The 25-year-old has opted to sign a two-year deal with the Roosters after playing 38 NRL games in two years at the club before joining Newcastle in 2018.

The Knights were keen on retaining Watson but grew increasingly concerned when he missed a club imposed decision deadline last week. Newcastle wanted a call made before their last-start win against Cronulla but were told by Watson he needed more time.

In the end that time has landed with Watson taking up a deal with the Roosters where he will add some much-needed depth in key positions at the club.

[night_shadow]

Great win for the Roosters! We needed some luck.

[BraveTheWorld]

I wonder what exactly this means. It seems odd that he would come here for anything other than to be playing consistent first grade, so I wonder where exactly into the team he slots? I suppose he takes over from Keighran/Lam as the bench utility? Bit of an odd signing for me, but he's a good player.

[TheLoneRooster]

Hmmm, what does this mean for the other players who play the same position as Connor. Not sure how I feel about him returning to the Roosters.

[roostersrule2]

He’s good depth at fullback, halves, hooker and lock.

Vlandy ball has made him the perfect 14 and with our injury tolls he’ll see a lot of starting action, probably

[Roostajohn]

With Rads getting suspended every 2-4 games Connor will fill in at lock most of the time. Great utility value in other positions as well. Great signing....!!!!

[Lawn_moa]

Fantastic signing. With the way the games going now I think he could win the number 9 spot and make it his own. Share the duties with Verills and play lock for 20 minutes when Radley goes off.

[Steakface]

I don't mind him as a player, but ultimately he is an average utility imo.

A strange signing, unless of course there is exit movement pending among the existing squad (Lussick, Lam perhaps)

[Serenader]

Fantastic signing. With the way the games going now I think he could win the number 9 spot and make it his own. Share the duties with Verills and play lock for 20 minutes when Radley goes off.

Interesting theory

[RoosterJ]

Yeah, with Ice man going, the depth of 13 was the gap for us.

Connor definitely fills that role behind Victor.

[ConGa]

Welcome back Connor. I remember the days when Chookpen members in upheaval on the decision to sign Keary to replace Connor

[Flipper Hands]

I don't mind him as a player, but ultimately he is an average utility imo.

A strange signing, unless of course there is exit movement pending among the existing squad (Lussick, Lam perhaps)

Depends what we are paying him.

Regardless, welcome Connor Watson.

[zac]

big news. he's an upgrade on anything we've got at 14 and if he can stay injury free he'll be a great signing and can be a match winner on his day.
with the salary cap it's always about value for money but he can help us win a premiership

[Cyril Snodgrass III]

With the Iceman returning home,we needed a solid addition to the pack...Watson will be an excellent recruit...

Welcome home Connor

[RoosterJ]

It will be interesting to see the shuffling of team depth for 9:

Ver and Connor (primary choice)

Lam (ok service, basic defence, good footwork/create running opportunities)
Lussick (good service, ok defence)
Marshcke( good defence, ok service)

AK(stronger in the centres, ok foot work, really good in the air, can fill a lot of positions + Goal kicking, just needs more D development.)

I reckon we will lose Lussick or Marschke, which is pity as they both did well considering the circumstances.