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

Almost

These Australians were given try-outs with NFL teams but were not able to make a regular season roster.

Nathan Chapman (2004)

Chapman had a mediocre career in Australian Rules Football before the injury bug hit and he decided it was best to move on. Chapman signed with the Packers in 2004 and, after punting in 3 pre-season games, almost made the final roster. Unfortunately, he was cut and could never make it to the final 53-man squad for either the Packers or the Chicago Bears, who he joined for rookie and senior minicamps.

Chapman has not let this keep him away from American football, however, as he is the director of “ProKick Australia,” an organization that trains Aussies in punting and placekicking techniques. ProKick has had a good amount of success coaching players into positions with both NFL and NCAA teams.

Anthony Rocca (2007)

Anthony Rocca is the younger brother of successful punter Sav Rocca. After signing with the Eagles in 2007, Anthony became homesick and returned to Australia, never again to pursue the NFL. He was a successful Aussie Rules player, however.

Next: Close, but No Cigar: More Unsuccessful Aussies