Jarryd Hayne quit rugby in October to have the chance to make his dreams come true. On Monday night, his dreams became one step closer from happening. The 27-year-old, who is a former National Rugby League MVP, announced that he has signed a futures contract with the San Francisco 49ers. A futures contract means Hayne will not count against San Francisco's 53-man roster limit for next season.
It was thought that he would sign a futures contract with the Detroit Lions, but the Sydney Morning Herald reported that Hayne prefers the lifestyle in San Francisco as compared to Detroit. I can't say I blame him there.
Haynes now goes from playing with the Parramatta Eels to potentially playing professional football with the 49ers. At his "pro day," the 6-foot-2, 226-pound Hayne ran a 4.53 40-yard dash, which is almost identical to Wisconsin's Melvin Gordon.
Hayne says he received a $100,000 guarantee from the 49ers, which is considerably less than his multi-million dollar Australian rugby contract. Even with the guaranteed money he received from the 49ers, it's not a guarantee that he makes the 53-man roster. Considering he has never played football before, there will be a lot of work Hayne needs to do to make the roster. He is expected to play running back and help out on special teams as a return specialist.
If his highlight reel is any indicator, Hayne looks like he's going to be a special player to watch.
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