The Sydney Roosters have today announced two NRL player extensions, with Billy Smith signing a one-year extension (2024) and Connor Watson re-committing for a further two years (2024-2025).
2023 was a breakout season for Billy Smith. He completed the year with 15 first grade appearances and was regularly among the best on field.
Born and bred in the Eastern Suburbs, Smith progressed through the Club’s pathway program and made his NRL debut in 2019. Despite an unfortunate run of injuries early in his career, he has established himself as a key member of the squad with a ‘team first’ mentality.
“I’m so grateful to the Roosters for the loyalty they’ve shown me over the years. I love the Club and I look forward to continuing to repay the Roosters for the belief they have always had in me,” said Smith.
“For me personally, 2023 was my best year of footy and I’m excited to build on that in 2024,” he added.
Roosters Head Coach Trent Robinson was pleased to retain Smith as a member of the Club’s 2024 squad.
“Billy is an Eastern Suburbs local and he is respected by his teammates for his dedication to all aspects of his preparation and performance. It was terrific to see Billy’s growth throughout the 2023 season and I’m looking forward to continuing to work with him,” said Robinson.
While a pre-season injury sidelined Connor Watson for the duration of the 2023 season, his recovery has progressed well, and he will commence pre-season training later this month.
Known for his adaptability and the versatility he brings to the game, Watson also made his NRL debut with the Roosters (2016) after progressing through the Club’s lower grades. After four seasons with the Newcastle Knights (2018-2021), he returned to the Tricolours in 2022 and has played 125 first grade games so far.
“I’m stoked to re-commit to the Roosters for another two years. I’m looking forward to continuing to work with the coaches and players we have here, and to playing my role for the team,” said Watson.
Robinson was also pleased to have Watson as part of his squad for the next two years.
“While we were all disappointed for Connor at the time of his injury, it says a lot about his character that he used the year to mentor some of the younger players in our squad and to work on areas of his own development both on and off the field,” said Robinson.
“He is a much-loved member of our Club for the player and person he is, and it’s great that he will continue to represent the Roosters for the next few years,” he added.
Smith and Watson will commence their 2024 pre-season later this month.
