Beard will move to Rodney Parade at the end of the season to bolster Lyn Jones’ backline options. The 25-year-old was part of the Edinburgh side that dumped the Dragons out of the European Rugby Challenge Cup at the semi-final stage last season.
Beard joined Edinburgh from New Zealand side Bay of Plenty, in 2013, and made his debut off the bench against Ulster that same year. He has since represented the capital side on 41 occasions and scored two tries. And he is looking forward to his new challenge in South Wales.
Beard said: “It was a hard decision to make, but I am really looking forward to the new challenge that lies ahead. The chance to try something new was a great opportunity for me, one which I couldn’t give up.
“I have spoken at length to the coaching staff at the Dragons and they have all spoken highly about what the club are looking to achieve going forward. The Dragons have improved immeasurably and are a very happy team.
“I have enjoyed my time with Edinburgh Rugby and would like to thank the coaches, staff and players who have all been supportive since I joined the club.”
The Dragons remain 10th in the Guinness Pro12 after defeat at Benetton Treviso last weekend. They face Glasgow Warriors at home this weekend, and still have a European quarter-final to look forward to at Gloucester.
Dragons Director of Rugby, Lyn Jones added: “Sam has played exceptionally well for Edinburgh and starred against us. He’s a player that gets things right. He has a great skillset and is a talented individual and we look forward to him joining the Region.”
