By David Parsons

Dragons head coach Filo Tiatia has insisted “no stone was left unturned” to try and prolong the career of Leon Brown.

The Wales tight-head prop has announced his retirement from rugby at the age of 28, citing a persistent neck injury that has plagued him in recent seasons.

The Newport-born forward , who earned 24 caps for Wales, had hoped to recover from his latest setback but Tiatia says the club support his decision to call it a day after three separate operations on his neck.

“We’re all disappointed that Leon is retiring, but fully understand the decision he has now taken,” said Tiatia.

“I have really enjoyed working with Leon. He’s left no stone unturned, with his dedication and professionalism, and really developed as a leader in my time with him.

“Leon has been an important player for the club, a success story from our academy system, with his performances earning international recognition.

“We now wish him every success for the future. Leon will always be a part of our club and welcomed by us all at Rodney Parade.”

| Leon’s full statement following the news of his immediate retirement.

✍️ https://t.co/i7IXlOOtV6#WeAreGwentRugby pic.twitter.com/2l9Y1P6D6b

— Dragons RFC (@dragonsrfc) January 7, 2025

Brown made his Dragons debut in 2016 and quickly established himself as a key player for the club, amassing 74 appearances.

His rise through the ranks saw him step from Cross Keys in the Premiership to the international stage, earning his first Wales cap in 2017 against Australia.

Brown’s career highlights included his impressive form during the 2019/20 season, which followed his omission from the 2019 World Cup squad.

His performances during that time secured his place in the Wales squad once again.

However, ongoing neck issues severely limited his availability in recent years, with his last game coming against Benetton in October 2024 in the United Rugby Championship.

“All good things must come to an end and as I look back on my career, although shorter than I’d hoped, I do so with many fond memories and no regrets at all,” said Brown.

“I’ve always believed that everything happens for a reason and sometimes things just aren’t meant to be.

“Even though the rest of my body feels ready to continue to play, my neck clearly has other ideas. After three surgeries in the last three seasons, it’s time for me to listen to it and call it a day.”

We wish @WelshRugbyUnion and @DragonsRFC’s prop Leon Brown all the best on his retirement

Thank you for all the timeless memories
#BKTURC #URC pic.twitter.com/IAEuhANab8

— BKT United Rugby Championship (URC) (@URCOfficial) January 7, 2025

The Dragons and Wales have both felt the impact of Brown’s absence, as the position of tighthead prop remains a challenging area for depth and consistency.

Brown’s retirement now adds to Wales’ tight-head prop concerns as they prepare for the Six Nations.

Coach Warren Gatland faces a shortage of experienced players in the position, with Henry Thomas, Keiron Assiratti, and Dillon Lewis among the current options.

Bath’s Archie Griffin is sidelined following shoulder surgery, and Tomas Francis, who left the international scene after the 2023 World Cup to play in France, has not played since September due to injury.

“I should name every individual who’s helped and supported me along the way, but in keeping with my less is more approach, I will instead say a big ‘thank you’ to everyone who has been with me every step,” he said.

“I’ve been lucky enough to spend my entire playing career with the Dragons, something I’ve truly cherished and am incredibly proud of.”

After 2️⃣4️⃣ caps for his country & 7️⃣4️⃣ appearances for @dragonsrfc prop Leon Brown has now made the decision to hang up his boots through injury.

All the best with your next steps Leon & diolch am popeth #WelshRugby #DiolchLeon pic.twitter.com/5cEIp47WrA

— Welsh Rugby Union (@WelshRugbyUnion) January 7, 2025