The Manly Sea Eagles are wasting no time in reshaping their future following the shock mid-season sacking of Anthony Seibold. After a winless start to the 2026 campaign, the Brookvale-based club has set its sights on Sydney Roosters’ utility star Connor Watson as their first major recruitment target. While Watson remains contracted at Bondi until the end of 2027, internal whispers suggest the Roosters may be open to an early release as they navigate their own roster evolution.
The Versatility Play
Watson, a consistent performer in the State of Origin arena for the New South Wales Blues, is currently caught in a logjam at the Tri-colours. With the recent arrival of representative hooker Reece Robson and the emergence of young middle-forward talent, Watson’s minutes have been increasingly limited. Manly, however, sees the veteran as a vital “glue” player who could transition into a full-time starting lock or hooker. With club legend Jake Trbojevic entering the twilight of his career, Watson is viewed as the ideal successor to lead the Sea Eagles’ engine room.
Structural Shifts at Brookvale
Should Watson secure a move to the Northern Beaches, it would likely signal a permanent shift for off-season recruit Kobe Hetherington. The former Bronco has been a revelation in the middle, and a Watson signing would allow Hetherington to move into the starting prop rotation. This move comes as current front-row leader Taniela Paseka battles for form and veteran Siosiua Taukeiaho nears retirement. The Sea Eagles are desperate for a blend of agility and aggression, a combination Watson has mastered since his transformation from a utility back to a ball-playing forward.
Expansion Threats and Coaching Vacancies
Manly isn’t the only suitor for Watson’s services. The Perth Bears, set to enter the NRL in 2027, and the PNG Chiefs are reportedly monitoring the situation closely. Both expansion clubs are eager to land experienced representative players to anchor their inaugural squads. However, Manly’s biggest hurdle may be their lack of a permanent head coach. While club legend Kieran Foran has stepped in as interim manager following Seibold’s exit, the lack of long-term certainty in the coach’s box could make high-profile recruitment difficult.
As the Roosters balance their books following the high-profile acquisition of Daly Cherry-Evans from Manly earlier this year, the prospect of a player swap or early release for Watson remains a focal point of the 2026 transfer market. For the Sea Eagles, landing Watson would be a massive statement of intent as they look to salvage a disastrous season.