Former NRL star Jarryd Hayne has announced that he has signed a Futures Deal with NFL franchise San Francisco 49ers. Hayne is expected to join the side as a developmental running back.
In a press conference in Sydney today, Hayne cited initial concerns about heading to the 49ers, given the coaching speculation surrounding former head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Hayne was strongly linked to the Detroit Lions, and had shown interest in joining the Seattle Seahawks, but ultimately chose San Francisco due to Hayne’s relationship with new head coach Jim Tomsula.
Tomsula has previous experience working in NFL Europe – and in particular, working with rugby players towards making the transition to the American game. That knowledge and firm plan for transitioning between rugby league and the NFL was the deciding factor in Hayne ultimately choosing the 49ers over the Lions.
This afternoon’s press conference is expected to be Hayne’s last official Australian appearance for the foreseeable future, as he’ll be heading back to the US by the end of the week.
Hayne’s contract involves a US$100,000 guarantee – something the 49ers were willing to offer, but the other franchises were not. In essence, it is a rookie contract, with Hayne entering the NFL system in similar circumstances to an undrafted free agent.
Hayne will continue training independently in the US – he is unable to attend team facilities until pre-season training commences in April. He has been working out with personnel from US colleges UCLA and USC.
The next step involves a 16-20 week training program, at which point the 49ers will assess Hayne’s progress and make a decision regarding his potential playing future from there.
Photo: Brett Hemmings via Getty Images.
