Watson, currently with the New South Wales Blues preparing for next Wednesday’s crucial match, is known for his ability to play multiple positions, making him one of the most adaptable players in the game.
He started his NRL career as a half but evolved into a ball-playing forward during his time with the Newcastle Knights. Additionally, he has experience playing in the centres and at dummy half, a role he has primarily filled for the injury-hit Roosters throughout 2025.
This role is expected to continue until the end of the year after Brandon Smith’s departure, but with Reece Robson joining next season from the North Queensland Cowboys, it’s unlikely Watson will keep playing dummy half long term.
Instead, Watson is targeting the club’s number 13 jersey.
Traditionally worn by Victor Radley, who has had his career stalled by repeated concussions and has played second-row in 2025, the number 13 spot might open up. Watson, known for his ball-playing skills from his Knights days, could step into the Roosters’ lock forward position next year, a role that increasingly blends elements of prop and half.
In an interview with Fox Sports, Watson expressed that number 13 is his preferred position.
“I’m not exactly sure how everything will pan out, but Reece coming in probably gives me the chance to play more at No. 13, which I honestly think is my best spot,” Watson said.
He’s expected to alternate between positions 9 and 13 during the upcoming match for Laurie Daley’s team but admitted he hasn’t yet discussed a permanent position change with coach Trent Robinson.
“Well, I haven’t talked to Robbo about it yet, but I’d probably say yes to playing more lock than dummy half in 2026,” Watson said.
“When I first joined, I was mainly focused on the No. 13/No. 9 roles, leaning more towards No. 13. But then, with Sam Verrills’ pre-season injury, I was pushed into No. 9 for the last couple of years.
“I switched back to No. 13 for a while, and last year felt balanced when Cheese (Brandon Smith) and I played together. Sometimes he started, sometimes I did at No. 13, and then I’d shift to No. 9 to give him a breather, and we’d play together again.”
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