In what is fast-becoming “the story of the pre-season” according to one NFL caller, Jarryd Hayne’s decision to pack up and leave the NRL in the prime of his career is shaping up as a very clever one.
Hayne continues to impress with the San Francisco 49ers, with his chances of making the squad of 53 seemingly increasing by the day. The ex-NRL star was signed on by the 49ers in March of this year, with the club handing him a three-year deal worth a minimum of US$100,000, but with no guarantee of making the 53-man roster for the upcoming season.
Since that day, Hayne’s credentials have grown and grown as he has learned the game and been given more chances to show off his skills. Touted “a phenomenal athlete” by the 49ers’ starting Quarterback Colin Caepernick, Hayne completed a massive 53-yard rush with just his second touch of the ball in their opening pre-season match against the Houston Texans.
Along with his natural physical ability, it is also Hayne’s versatility that is impressing over in the US. He is looking to compete for a number of positions including running back, kick returner and a number of other special team’s roles.
All NFL clubs must cut their roster down to 75 on the 1st of September, with the final cut down to 53 occurring on the 5th. We’ll have all the latest as soon as it is known if Hayne will be given the chance to play for the 49ers over the 2015-16 NFL season.