The Perth Bears are preparing for their entry into the NRL in 2027, and the early recruitment picture shows some promise, but mostly urgency.

With 16 signings already secured, the club is laying foundations, but it is still without a true marquee name and lacks a clear veteran figure to lead its inaugural squad.

For a new franchise entering a rugby league landscape dominated in Western Australia by the AFL, the Bears' first year will be critical. 

Here are six players off contract at the end of 2026 who could elevate the Bears whilst helping shape their club's identity.

2027 NRL signing and best 19 tracker

3. Connor Watson (Roosters)

Connor Watson would be one of the most valuable signings the Perth Bears could target, particularly given his ability to shape a new club's spine and culture simultaneously. If released a year early, he could become a cornerstone of the Bears' inaugural squad and immediately slot into key roles across hooker, halves, or the middle rotation.

A State of Origin representative for New South Wales, Watson is widely regarded as one of the premier utilities in the game. His work rate, consistency, and competitiveness stand out, and he has built a reputation as a player coaches can trust in high-pressure situations.

For an expansion team still defining its identity, Watson's versatility is crucial. He offers tactical flexibility while also providing the type of reliability needed to stabilise a developing roster. In Perth, he would not just fill a position; he would help set standards around effort and professionalism. 

2 COMMENTS

  1. I suspect Kurt Mann and Damien Cook are just a year or two too old.
    Cobbo would be a classy pick up and at the same time a good long-term purchase.

    Connor Tracy was a utility at Cronulla, and is worth recruiting for his versatility, as well as his ability as a full-back.

    Current Cronulla fullback William Kennedy is at least as good as Tracy, and recruiting him as well as Tracy would would ensure quality depth in a spine position.