Career
A full back, Watson began his career in his native Scotland at Scottish League Division Two side Clyde. He earned a £200 move to English Division One side Newcastle United in November 1902. Watson managed only three league appearances before joining Southern League Division One side New Brompton.
Watson joined fellow Southern League Division One side Brentford in 1903, making 168 appearances in a five-year spell with the club
Along with teammates Jock Hamilton, Tom McAllister and Adam Bowman, Watson joined Division Two side Leeds City in 1908. Watson began the 1909/10 season as an ever-present, but lost his place in the side and departed the club in 1910.
Watson made 49 appearances for Leeds City and saw out his career with a second spell at Clyde. While in his first spell with Clyde, Watson appeared for a Glasgow Select XI.