# Connor Watson injury and NRL Grand Final availability > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/connor-watson-injury-and-nrl-grand-final-availability > Updated: 2026-10-02T04:00:00.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Sydney Roosters player Connor Watson’s availability for the NRL Grand Final became uncertain following a head injury assessment (HIA) during the preliminary final against the Dolphins. After sustaining a head knock early in the match, Watson’s injury was upgraded from a Category 2 to a Category 1 HIA by an independent doctor. This classification mandated an 11-day stand-down period, potentially preventing his participation in the season decider. Ultimately, Watson was ruled out of the Grand Final against Newcastle due to these mandatory concussion protocols. Although the Roosters had the option to seek a reclassification or exemption through independent medical advice, the club chose not to pursue it. This ruling prevented Watson from making a final appearance for the Roosters before his scheduled move to the St George Illawarra Dragons in 2027. Roosters coach Trent Robinson expressed support for the protocols, stating they exist to protect player health. ## Timeline ### 2026-10-02: Connor Watson ruled out of NRL Grand Final due to concussion protocols Connor Watson will miss the NRL grand final with the Sydney Roosters after failing to clear mandatory 11-day concussion protocols following a head knock in the preliminary final. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/connor-watson-ruled-out-of-nrl-grand-final-due-to-concussion-protocols ### 2026-09-25: Connor Watson's Grand Final availability uncertain after HIA upgrade Sydney Roosters star Connor Watson may miss the NRL Grand Final after an independent doctor upgraded his head injury assessment to Category 1, triggering a mandatory 11-day stand-down period. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/connor-watsons-grand-final-availability-uncertain-after-hia-upgrade --- Cite as: Connor Watson injury and NRL Grand Final availability. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/connor-watson-injury-and-nrl-grand-final-availability