The wing, who can also cover centre, began his rugby career at Western Province during the 2011 season. He was a key member of the Western Province U19s side that reached the semi-finals of the 2011 Under-19 Provincial Championship. In 2012 Howard was named in the South Africa Under 20s side that went on to win the IRB Junior World Championship.
During the 2014-15 off-season, whilst with Western Province, the 24-year-old joined Irish side Munster where he played in the Guinness PRO12 tournament and the European Rugby Champions Cup. He made his first appearance for Munster against the Men of Gwent at Rodney Parade.
Howard joins the Welsh Region from English Premiership team Northampton Saints.
After signing his contract, Howard commented: “I am really looking forward to returning to play in the Guinness PRO12 and am delighted that I have put pen to paper with the Dragons.
“I made my first appearance for Munster at Rodney Parade against the Dragons, and I am excited to be returning there and playing in front of a great crowd.”
He continued: “I am sure that there are good times ahead with young and exciting squad being assembled and I am looking forward to making the move to Wales.”
Dragons Head Coach, Kingsley Jones added: “We are delighted to bring Pat on board, he is a player that we have been monitoring for over 18 months.
“He is a dangerous attacking player with both strength and pace, and his physical nature of playing will add to our youthful backline.
“We are pleased to be welcoming him to our squad and we look forward to seeing him in a Dragons jersey next season.”
