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49ers’ Jarryd Hayne: One of many Australians to play in NFL

By Douglas Totten

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The Greatest Hope

Jarryd Hayne (2015-Present)

The “Hayne Plane,” as the former Rugby League superstar has become known, has surprised just about everyone with his back-to-back impressive performances for the San Francisco 49ers after just weeks wearing full pads. Beginning with a 53 yard carry in his first ever preseason game, Hayne announced to the world that he is not someone to be lightly — even if he is switching continents (both in terms of East-West and North-South) and sports.

Though just about everyone doubted Hayne when he first announced his intentions to come to the NFL a year ago — and even when he continually impressed throughout offseason workouts — the tide has suddenly turned from Hayne being seemingly headed for the practice squad to Hayne’s near-entrenchment as return-man and backup running back for the 49ers.

One person who has always believed in Hayne is teammate Reggie Bush, who reviewed Hayne’s rugby leage tape when Bush was still with the Detroit Lions (who, incidentally, Hayne nearly signed with). It appears as if Bush’s prediction was right, even if it may cost him some playing time down the road.

Hayne’s hype should, of course, not be overdone. He still has to perform in two more preseason games before a final verdict is made as to his status. With what he has shown so far, however, the former “LeBron James” of Rugby League looks set to be wearing the 49ers’ cardinal and gold long into 2015. Even coach Jim Tomsula, who has been noticeably hesitant to offer significant praise for the first year football player, is admitting that Hayne is “making a great case for himself.”

Perhaps the biggest reason for the 49ers to keep Hayne is that, if they do not, Hayne will almost certainly be swept up by someone else. Hayne has the potential to be the best non-punting Australian to ever play in the NFL, so it would be difficult, if not foolish, to let him walk away.

The Hayne Plane bandwagon is taking off. It is great for Australia and great for the NFL. Are you on board?

Next: Jarryd Hayne must make 49ers roster

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