Connor Watson: The Versatile Blues Star Making Waves in 2025 State of Origin

Rising Star in NSW Blues

Connor Watson has established himself as a crucial player for the NSW Blues, particularly in his role as bench utility. His journey in State of Origin began with his debut last year, following in the footsteps of Blues legends as an impact player.

2025 Season Highlights

Watson’s 2025 NRL season has been marked by impressive performances, including a notable achievement in round 2 where he scored two tries in the Sydney Roosters’ upset victory over Penrith (38-32). His strong form led to his selection for New South Wales ahead of the 2025 State of Origin series.

Versatility as Key Strength

As a proud Indigenous man from the Central Coast, Watson has proven to be one of the most versatile players in the NRL. His ability to excel in multiple positions – including lock, halves, centre, hooker, and fullback – makes him an invaluable asset to any team.

Learning from Legends

Watson’s development into a representative player has been significantly influenced by former greats. He has benefited from mentoring at the Roosters with Craig Wing, and during his time at Newcastle, he regularly consulted with Kurt Gidley. These legends were instrumental in establishing the importance of the utility role in representative sides.

Expert Analysis

According to rugby league experts, Watson’s success stems from his unique combination of qualities. He possesses both the toughness required for forward play and the skill and agility needed in the backs. This dual capability makes him particularly valuable as a utility player who can cover multiple positions effectively.

Looking Ahead

While Watson provides continuity for the Blues, the competition landscape continues to evolve, with Queensland introducing Tom Dearden as their bench utility. Dearden, typically a starting five-eighth, has moved to the interchange bench following recent team changes. This sets up an intriguing tactical battle in the upcoming Origin matches.