DRAGONS and Wales tighthead Leon Brown has retired at the age of 28 because of a neck injury, declaring ‘all good things must come to an end’.

The powerful prop from Newport, who won 24 caps, has been plagued by injuries in recent seasons and signed an incentivised contract for this season.

Brown’s game time in the first block of the United Rugby Championship was managed with input from the Dragons and Wales conditioning staff and he made three appearances.

However, he suffered a recurrence of the nerve issue and has opted to hang up his boots after 74 outings for the club.

INTERNATIONAL: Dragons and Wales prop Leon Brown has retired because of a neck injury (Image: David Davies)

“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.”

Brown, from Maesglas, caused a stir when learning the ropes with Cross Keys in the Premiership and made his Dragons debut against Leicester at Welford Road in the Anglo-Welsh Cup in 2016.

His rapid rise led to the experienced Brok Harris switching from tighthead to loosehead and he won his first cap for Wales against Australia in 2017.

Brown had arguably his best season in 2019/20 when he reacted to the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup with strong displays in all departments for the Dragons, forcing his way back into the Test fold.

However, his progress since has been hindered by injury and the neck problem has forced his retirement.

FAREWELL: Dragons prop Leon Brown has retired because of a neck injury (Image: Chris Fairweather/Huw Evans Agency)

“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.

“I’d like to send a massive shoutout to my teammates - both past and present - and to the loyal Dragons fans for your continued, unwavering support.

“Everyone’s help and support over the years has not gone unnoticed by my family or I, and we will be forever grateful.

“Finally, a huge thank you to Dragons RFC for sticking by me and supporting me while I tried my best to get this neck to play ball!

“Remember: nothing is ever as good as it seems, and nothing is ever as bad, either. Peaks and troughs! Thanks for everything.”

The Dragons have veteran Dmitri Arhip and Chris Coleman as their leading options for the rest of the season at tighthead with Paula Latu signed on a short-term deal after the loss of Luke Yendle to a knee injury.

POWERHOUSE: Dragons prop Leon Brown was devastating on the charge (Image: Huw Evans Agency)

Brown was their first-choice 3 when fit and firing and that leaves them needing to recruit in that department in the summer, while they must also cope without a popular and influential member of the squad.

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