Jarryd Hayne has been selected among the 46 players names for the San Francisco’s opening game against the Minnesota Vikings.
It will be his debut in the NFL, just ten months after he made the remarkable decision to leave the Parramatta Eels to pursue a career in American football.
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There has been plenty of speculation about whether the Australian star, who lit up the pre-season with his footwork and speed, would get a start for the Niners in their first match.
He made several charges from the running back position of over 20 yards, while also displaying dazzling stepping ability when returning kicks and punts.
Hayne was kept in the dark about the decision right up until the day the team was named.
Many predicted 49ers coach Jim Tomsula would want to have Hayne sit on the bench for at least a few games to adjust to the speed of first-team football, but it appears he has enough faith in the former league star to throw him into the fray straight away.
The Aussie beat out contenders DeAndrew White and Mike Davis to get a place on the active roster for today’s game.
Hayne played in four pre-season games for the 49ers, leading the team in rushing and returning yards, leading some to label him as the ‘story of the pre-season.’
It’s unclear where Hayne will get time, if he managed to get on the field, but in all likelihood he will be used on special teams as a punt and kick returner and a gunner, whose job it is to tackle the opposition’s punt returner.
Both positions feed into Hayne’s strengths – his speed, agility and ability to find the correct blocks (and avoid them) when returning and chasing the football.
You can watch Jarryd Hayne live on ESPN, which is on Foxtel, or watch online using their service Foxtel Play or Foxtel Go.
You can also purchase a League Pass from the NFL. All are paid services. San Francisco’s next game will be live on 7Mate on digital free-to-air.
Hayne posted this photo on his Instagram a week ago. It seems fitting to post it here too.
Bruce Bingo
Guest
Will this entry bypass moderation?? Yes, it did bypass moderation. And now I can edit it for up to ten minutes. Richard
Bruce Bingo the 2nd
Guest
Will this now bypass moderation?
Bruce Bingo
Guest
This is a test guys. Ignore. Testing UX behaviour on a very old article.
49ers Fan (from the Bay!)
Guest
that's why its in quotes...you aint the real deal.
KiwiDave
Roar Guru
J.Locke punts 39 yards to MIN 42, Center-K.McDermott. J.Hayne MUFFS catch, touched at MIN 42, RECOVERED by MIN-A.Cole at MIN 43. A.Cole to MIN 43 for no gain (J.Hayne). 1-yd of loose ball yardage.............An auspicious start to say the least LOL
Jameswm
Guest
Will he get on the pitch?
Stevo
Guest
LOL
Sole
Guest
He won't get any looks as RB unless Hyde or Bush get injured. However, extremely excited with his debut nonetheless!
Nate
Guest
Will be interesting to see how much time he gets. Don't think it will be much but I'm looking forward to seeing how he goes against starters.
Damo
Guest
Rumour is Tony hasn't done a presser yet because he wants to see Hayne take the first return.
ProfVonSchrodinger
Guest
I am. I can also spell.
49ers Fan (from the Bay!)
Guest
Hey "Professer" vonhackscrodumger, I bet your fun at parties.
josh
Roar Rookie
Has anyone asked Malcolm his thoughts on this?
49ers Fan (from the Bay!)
Guest
He beat out Mike Davis. wow. His versatility to be on coverage teams gets him in is my guess. I don't think it was enough for him to just be a punt returner. Officially for tonight, he's also 3rd string RB. He might get a few looks back there as well. Interesting.
poida
Guest
Provon always looking on the bright side I feed off your positive energy your a inspiration to us all almost as much as hayne
ProfVonSchrodinger
Guest
It's still a bore of a sport.