Jarryd Hayne made his NFL debut for the San Francisco 49ers today. Unfortunately, it probably wasn’t the start he was looking for, as he dropped a swirling punt in his first touch of the football in a regular season game.
The fumble led to the Minnesota Vikings diving on the ball, reclaiming possession for an offensive drive in 49ers territory.
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Before you all jump on our case about how we’re bashing him up too quickly, hear us out.
We at The Roar see the positive side in all this – Jarryd has a big opportunity to respond in the same manner that two of his former NRL colleagues did in their careers.
Think back to Darren Lockyer’s international debut, where he fumbled two kicks that led directly to tries in the fullback position, as the Kiwis upset the Kangaroos.
Or consider the two brain explosions Justin Hodges had in his Origin debut, leading to NSW points.
Hayne’s fumble wasn’t half as bad as those, and it didn’t lead to any points for the Minnesota Vikings in their subsequent drive.
What happened to those two unfortunate souls who struggled in some of their earliest moments.
Lockyer went on to captain his country and play the most internationals in the history of the game.
Justin Hodges went on to be one of the most decorated Origin players of all time, and was a crucial member of Queensland’s team that one nine of the last 10 Origin series.
Jarryd Hayne’s fumble wasn’t nearly as bad, and if the signs from the pre-season are anything to go by, we still have lots to look forward to.
So chin up Jarryd! We’re still behind you.
Just make like Lockyer. Or Hodges.
In fact, he just had two runs at running back, and looked pretty good.
Back to the game.
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