**Dragons Confirm Major Departures as Club Rebuilds Following Disappointing Season**
The Dragons have published their list of departing players as they prepare for next season, signalling a significant reshaping of their squad at Rodney Parade. The most prominent name on the list is Scott Williams, the seasoned Wales international, who will not be offered a contract renewal despite recent speculation about his future.
Williams, 34, joined the Dragons earlier this season on a short-term basis following his exit from the Scarlets. Although his opportunities were limited to substitute appearances initially, he made a notable impact during Judgement Day against his former side. His strong performance had given rise to hopes he might be retained, but the club has opted not to offer an extended deal.
The announcement comes in the aftermath of a challenging league campaign, with the Dragons securing just a single victory in the United Rugby Championship (URC). After narrowly defeating the Ospreys on the opening weekend, the team lost 17 consecutive matches, culminating in a difficult bottom-of-the-table finish.
Filo Tiatia, embarking on his first full season as head coach, has already begun shaping his vision for the club’s future. To complement several new signings, a raft of experienced players will be moving on as part of the squad overhaul. The club had previously confirmed the departures of winger Ashton Hewitt and lock Joe Davies, while Welsh back-rower Dan Lydiate has retired from professional rugby.
Among other confirmed moves, dynamic flanker Taine Basham and scrum-half Dane Blacker have secured new contracts with Cardiff and Scarlets respectively, and young fly-half Will Reed has joined Worcester. The latest departures include tighthead Dmitri Arhip, loosehead Josh Reynolds, lock George Nott, flanker George Young, fly-half Lloyd Evans, and full-back Jordan Williams. Notably, George Nott is tipped to follow Basham to Cardiff Arms Park, continuing the migration of talent within Welsh rugby.
The status of Wales international Cai Evans was clarified in the announcement. Despite his existing deal expiring this year and a significant Achilles injury sustained in January, Evans will remain with the Dragons to complete his rehabilitation and is likely to be offered fresh terms for next season.
In a further change to the front row, Tongan prop Paula Latu, who joined the club on a short-term contract in December, will also be leaving. Additionally, local tighthead Nathan Evans and back Lloyd Lewis have been thanked for their contributions during the campaign, while academy prospects Walker Price and Tomoya Nieuwendijk-Adachi will also depart.
Reflecting on the changes, head coach Tiatia expressed his gratitude to those leaving, stating, “On behalf of everyone at Dragons RFC, I’d like to thank our departing players for their commitment, dedication, and professionalism. Many, such as Taine, Ashton, Joe, and Dan, have surpassed the milestone of 100 appearances, leaving behind a legacy of contribution and impact.”
The coach emphasised the collective effort of all those involved, wishing them success as they move on. “Every single player has played a part during their time with us. We hope to see them, and their families, return to Rodney Parade as part of the Dragons family in the years ahead,” he added.
As the Dragons enter the off-season, attention will now turn to recruitment and integrating new faces into the squad ahead of the 2025/26 campaign. Supporters will hope that this period of transition marks the beginning of a more competitive era for the Men of Gwent.
The club’s decisions signal a proactive approach in addressing last season’s struggles, with the hope that new talent and refreshed strategies will spark a turnaround in fortunes at Rodney Parade. The coming months are expected to shed further light on the club’s ambitions under Tiatia’s stewardship.