Dragons back up first win with ex-Origin star signing

Fresh off finally breaking through for their first win of the 2026 season, the St George Illawarra Dragons have continued their aggressive rebuild by confirming the signing of former NSW Origin representative Connor Watson on a one-year deal for 2027.

The addition of Watson is the latest major recruitment statement from the Dragons, who have already secured a host of high-profile names for 2027 including Keaon Koloamatangi, Scott Drinkwater, Phillip Sami and Luke Metcalf as as they look to rapidly transform the club’s roster and culture.

“The Dragons are excited to be bringing Connor to the club next year, he’s a player who has performed in the game’s toughest arenas and we love what he brings to the table. Connor’s a true professional and we’re confident that his addition, even if only for the one season, will make our team better.» CEO Tim Watsford said.

“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.” Watsford continued.

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A Central Coast product, Watson will arrive at the Dragons with a wealth of experience and leadership after carving out one of the more respected careers in the modern game after solid recent seasons with the Roosters.

Since debuting in 2016, the versatile lock and hooker has played 178 NRL games, represented New South Wales five times in State of Origin and earned three Indigenous All Stars selections.

Watson has built a reputation as one of the competition’s toughest and most selfless players, admired across the game for his professionalism, versatility and relentless work ethic.

Capable of playing through the middle, in the halves or at dummy-half, the 30-year-old shapes as an ideal fit for the Dragons given his ability to provide impact in multiple roles whilst also mentoring younger players coming through the system.

The move also continues what is shaping as one of the most aggressive roster overhauls in the NRL, with the Dragons clearly determined to surround their emerging talent with proven first grade experience and representative-quality leadership to get back to the finals in 2027.

It has long been speculated that Watson would sign with the PNG Chiefs from 2028, and the Dragons securing him on a one-year deal suggests that announcement may not be far away.

While many have been critical of the Dragons after their horror 2026 season so far, few could argue how proactive they have been, moving on from former coach Shane Flanagan and securing several big-name signings that should undoubtedly brighten their future.

Dragons back up first win with ex-Origin star signing

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