WATSON 003 CHIEFS

THE PNG Chiefs are proud to announce the signing of Connor Watson, who becomes signing 003 for the club ahead of its entry into the NRL in 2028.

Watson has agreed to join the PNG Chiefs on a two-year deal for the 2028 and 2029 NRL seasons, marking another major step forward as the club continues building its inaugural roster and momentum towards 2028.

One of the NRL’s most respected and versatile players, Watson will arrive at the PNG Chiefs with extensive top-level experience across multiple positions, including hooker, lock and the halves. His professionalism, leadership and team-first mentality have made him one of the game’s most valued players throughout his career.

As Signing 003, Watson joins the growing list of elite players committing to the PNG Chiefs project, reinforcing the club’s vision of building a world-class organisation grounded in culture, professionalism and long-term success.

PNG Chiefs General Manager Football Michael Chammas said Watson’s character and professionalism stood out throughout the recruitment process.

“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.

“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.

“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,” said Michael Chammas.

PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said Watson represented exactly the type of person and player the club wanted helping shape the future of the organisation.

“What impressed us most, beyond Connor’s football ability, was his sense of purpose and the way he treats people.

“He leads with kindness, he listens, and he brings a calm strength into every environment he enters. We wanted people who would genuinely feel at home in Papua New Guinea, and people Papua New Guinea would feel proud to welcome.

“Connor immediately connected with the country and our vision for what this club can become. We know he will have a significant impact both on and off the field as we build towards 2028.

“You can feel the excitement continuing to build around the club now. With every signing, the vision becomes more real for our fans, our partners and for Papua New Guinea,” said Lorna McPherson.

Watson becomes the latest major signing for the PNG Chiefs as the club continues assembling a high-performance roster ahead of the club’s inaugural NRL season in 2028.

Watson has built his career within some of the NRL’s strongest football systems, spending time with both the Newcastle Knights and Sydney Roosters, while also representing New South Wales on five occasions in State of Origin football.