Hayne has already made a name for himself as an electrifying mover of the ball who enjoys playing through pain and running through, and over, tackles, both prominent features of his home game Rugby League, a fast-paced, high contact sport played without padding or protection. Hayne said in a conference call, when asked how he felt after the deadline passed in San Francisco.
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“You’re talking about a guy coming into a game that he’s never played”.
“It’s incredible to see that”.
Not everyone got to stay in this season’s proverbial race, however, as tough roster moves were made. “He said congrats and it’s just the start, which it is”.
The previous 49ers participant takes satisfaction in being the one man in historical past to attain each an NFL landing (reaching the top zone twice for the 49ers in 1974) and a “attempt” in a first-grade Australian rugby league (for the Newtown Jets in 1977).
Best suited as a return specialist, Hayne emerged as the 49ers most multi-talented asset through the exhibition season. He went on to lead the 49ers in rushing yards and kick-off return yardage.
“It’s a special achievement”, Daley said.
Running backs and punt returners have notoriously short careers, with the pounding and injuries taking their toll.
One of the surprise cuts was linebacker Nick Moody, who Hayne had praised during workouts for his strength and power.
The 49ers also released WR DiAndre Campbell, CB Marcus Cromartie, G/C Dillon Farrell, RB Kendall Gaskins, TE Xavier Grimble, CB Leon McFadden, DT Kaleb Ramsey, OL Justin Renfrow, DL Marcus Rush, NT Garrison Smith, QB Dylan Thompson, G Andrew Tiller and S Jermaine Whitehead.
However, the pay cut will be sweetened by a potential $12m in endorsements the former Eels player could make over the next three years.
“If you’ve got those two things you can do a lot”. In an attempt to add additional secondary depth, the Seahawks acquired Kelcie McCray from Kansas City in exchange for a 2016 draft pick, expected to be a late-round selection.
The 49ers confirmed his position in the team on Friday as they cut 22 more players from their roster ahead of the season opener against the Minnesota Vikings on Monday week (Tuesday, 12.20pm AEST).
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Apart from his exemplary attitude at training, it was his performances in those games that won over not only the coach, but also a legion of new fans. “It’s not quite right yet”, Tomsula said.
