The Merthyr based front rower originally joined Pontypridd back in the summer of 2011, having impressed for his home town club as a solid scrummager and dynamic performer in the loose.
Howe went on to make nine senior appearances for the Sardis Road club during the course of the ensuing season, before departing to join Championship club Bargoed.
An injury crisis amongst the Pontypridd front row during the build up to this season saw the club seeking an addition to the squad, with Howe targeted to step into the breach.
Aged 23, Howe will provide a mix of youthful dynamism and physical strength to the Pontypridd forward unit, as coach Dale McIntosh explained.
“We had been looking at James as a recruit for the following season,” he said McIntosh.
“That move has now been fast forwarded. He was inexperienced when he first joined us, but has developed his game at Bargoed.
“I have known James since he was 12, he loves his rugby and he loves Pontypridd RFC.
“His attributes are an explosiveness around the pitch and an ability to scrummage strongly. He will undoubtedly be a major asset to the club.”
