DRAGONS captain Cory Hill has backed lock Brandon Nansen to be a big hit at the Dragons – with the powerhouse Samoan set to "smoke" his PRO14 opponents.

The big-hitting forward, who won three caps last season, has arrived at Rodney Parade after spending last season with Stade Francais.

The 24-year-old has been signed to provide big hits in attack and defence with head coach Bernard Jackman expecting the Auckland-born lock to be his "enforcer".

Wales international Hill started with Nansen in the boilerhouse in the final tune-up against Gloucester at Kingsholm and has lauded the Samoan's muscle ahead of Saturday's opener against Benetton (kick-off 7.35pm).

"He is a massive guy and exactly what we needed. He is going to bring that big brute power and we will hopefully see him smoke a few people and send some bodies flying," said Hill.

"He's a typical Islander, a very nice person, a down to earth, genuine bloke and that's great for our squad.

"He has fitted in and hopefully he will do the business on the field. He is fresh from being with Samoa this summer and it's great to have more international quality in the squad.

"I am sure he will add value to us and help add to that culture where we are all pushing each other on. That will get us to the stage where we are winning games but also able to rotate."

Hill and Nansen are joined as second row options by South African Rynard Landman, Joe Davies and Matthew Screech.

"In a few of the positions we are stronger now than we have ever been, which means you can rotate in training and share the reps out, you don't have to hit every scrum and jump every lineout," said the captain, who is set to partner Nansen this weekend with Screech in pole position to be back-up.

"Brandon has come in, it's great to see Matthew back on his feet [after a hamstring injury] and Joe and Rynard had good seasons.

"We've got five senior second rows, which I don't think that we have had for a number of seasons."

Hill needs a strong season to keep his place in the Wales pack after being the only player to feature in all 12 internationals in 2017/18.

In World Cup year, the Dragons need results if their Test contingent are to get the call from Warren Gatland for Japan 2019.

"Everyone wants to play international rugby but first and foremost you have to get your performances right for your club," said Hill.

"That's all that is in our minds – we want to be a region that is winning and if we do that then we can get more players in the Wales squad, which will create more interest and attract better players.

"It's all linked and it all starts with playing well for the Dragons. We've got that first game in sight now and it has come around quickly."