Edinburgh Rugby is bidding farewell to nine players at the end of the season, headlined by club legend Hamish Watson and scrum-half Charlie Shiel. The departures mark the close of an era for the Scottish side, with Watson—currently on a short-term loan at Leicester Tigers—leaving after 181 appearances in the Edinburgh jersey. Shiel, who has made 93 appearances, also exits, along with James Lang, Ben Healy, Sam Skinner, Angus Williams, Ross McCann, and Mikey Jones. Lions-bound Boan Venter's exit had been previously confirmed.

Head coach Sean Everitt paid tribute to the outgoing players, saying, "Every one of them has given their all for the jersey, and I want to express my sincere gratitude for the commitment and passion they've shown for Edinburgh." He reserved special praise for Watson, calling him "an all-time Edinburgh legend and one of the finest players ever to represent this club." Everitt added, "We hope he gets back to full fitness soon and has every opportunity to challenge for silverware with Leicester Tigers at the end of the season. He deserves that."

Fans may have one last chance to see Venter and Shiel in action from the bench when Edinburgh host Dragons on Friday in their final United Rugby Championship fixture of the season. As the club turns the page, these departures signal a new chapter—and a fitting moment for supporters to honor the players who have left their mark on the Edinburgh badge.