Evans, who was capped twice by Wales on the 2009 tour to North America, had been told he would be released by the Dragons at the end of the season after Lyn Jones and co announced they would be bringing Wales and Lions star Lee Byrne back from French giants Clermont Auvergne.
But that setback has led to a chance to move to the Liberty Stadium, with the Ospreys convinced that the 25-year-old can kick on after a superb season so far.
“This is a great opportunity for me. There is some real world-class talent in the Ospreys squad so it’s a big challenge for me personally, but I can’t wait to get involved and fight for my place,” said Evans.
“The Ospreys have been the most successful team in Wales over the last 10 years, winning leagues and producing players for the national team. I want to be a part of a successful Ospreys team.
“There are a lot of good players here, not only the senior ones but a lot of good youngsters coming through. There’s a good blend which is what is needed in a successful side. I’ve got a lot of experience now, not only in the Rabo but in Europe as well, but I’ve still got a lot to learn.
“The coaches have said they’ve seen something they like in me and they believe I can do a job for the Ospreys. Hopefully, being in this environment with international players and quality coaches will improve my game and help me become a better player.”
Evans has been one of the Dragons’ most consistent performers this term, playing in 19 of his side’s 21 fixtures and starting all but one of those games in the No15 shirt.
He previously spent five years with the Scarlets before heading to Rodney Parade in 2012 and was a Wales international at U18 and U20 level prior to winning senior caps against Canada and the United States.
“We are delighted to have been able to secure the services of a talented Welsh player who has been in eye-catching form over the last two seasons. It’s great news for the region that he wanted to come here,” said Andy Lloyd, rugby operations manager at the Ospreys.
“We believe that Dan is a good fit for us, the way that our back line is developing around a group of players who may be young in age but are gaining a lot of experience and are starting to mature as a collective. He’s been a regular points scorer over the last few years and while we believe that we can help him reach that next level, he can also give us some focus at the back and create some real competition for the shirt.
“Dan is someone who has always displayed real talent but the last couple of years, with a consistent run of games, have really seen him flourish and he is performing week in, week out at a high level. He’s got a great left foot which everybody can see, but also, his physical attributes and his understanding and decision making at the back are particular assets.”
