Carlton Supporters Club

Despite being a New South Welshman I've never been a huge Rugby League fan
My sporting ancestry is firmly Australian Football...mostly down in the Riverina.
But I'm really enjoying watching this bloke doing well in the NFL pre-season.
Hope he makes the cut.

Wonder how he'd go at AFL?

http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/glanceview/496866/haynes-strong-case-for-a-49ers-berth.glance

There would be 1000 americans who can do what he is doing. He is getting so much 'air time' because he is an aussie or as the yanks say it 'Aw-See'.

The only thing that has really set him apart from anything the yanks have done was his shoulder charge today. Didn't gain anything, just looked good.

The article in the Australian today seemed to point to Hayne leading the stats in the preseason for average yards gained as a running back. Also punt returning, wide receiver, etc.

Unusual in the NFL to have multi-faceted players like that. So 1000 americans... Maybe only 999?

The article in the Australian today seemed to point to Hayne leading the stats in the preseason for average yards gained as a running back. Also punt returning, wide receiver, etc.

Unusual in the NFL to have multi-faceted players like that. So 1000 americans... Maybe only 999?

No, it's not.

Punt returners are traditionally either wide receivers, running backs or cornerbacks. They are the fastest blokes in the squad and good at evading tacklers. Every single punt returner or kick returner has an actual position on the depth chart besides 'punt/kick returner'. 2 years ago the vikings (my team) had the best kick returner (Patterson - WR) and punt returner (Sherels - CB) in the league. They also got game time in their actual positions (as listed).

Leading the stats in the pre-season means less than squat. Teams play their 1st string players (less any superstars, ala Adrian Peterson, 2013 MVP who does not play a single second)...then they play their second string players....then they play their 3rd string players....and if they have them, 4th stringers. Everyone gets a go. Usually, the 2nd stringers get most playing time.

He is a second stringer at best and is playing against other second stringers. His offensive line is creating huge holes for him to run through, so all he has to do is run. Good running backs need to work out where and when to run when there are no holes to run into. Great running backs create their own holes.

Look, i've got nothing against the bloke, but just trying to put things in perspective. ;)

So then he's not much chance of making the cut Kruds?

So then he's not much chance of making the cut Kruds?

He'll make the cut. He'll be their kick returner/punt returner, but he won't get much game time otherwise.

That'll mean he gets out on the field maybe a handful of times a game, and half of that they will probably kick the ball over his head so he can't hurt the opposition by returning the ball for a touchdown.

As mentioned earlier, Patterson was the best kick returner in the game 2 years ago. I say 2 years ago and not last year because he was so effective at returning the kicks, teams simply stopped kicking it to him. If they kicked it to him, he'd get a big return and maybe a touchdown. If they didn't they got good field position and no touchdown.

Leading the stats in the pre-season means less than squat.

+1 mate.

NFL don't play their guns in preseason, risk of injury is high.

Jordy Nelson (from my beloved packers) did his ACL this preseason, and in hindsight, he should not have been playing till season opener.

Good luck Jarryd.

Seems like a good kid chasing a dream. Couldn't think of a better ambassador for oz .

All the more amazing is he's from the NRL.

+1 mate.

NFL don't play their guns in preseason, risk of injury is high.

Jordy Nelson (from my beloved packers) did his ACL this preseason, and in hindsight, he should not have been playing till season opener.

Packers fan here too, I disagree with your injury philosophy, if your best players don't get a run in the pre-season, they start the season lacking match fitness, it could cost you early wins in the season proper. Pre-season games exist for a reason, clubs need to make the best use of them that they can.

Back to the Packers, I'm excited to see what Myles White and Jeff Janis can bring with Jordy out for the season. Also how good has Hundley been as a rookie QB?!! Bring on the Bears next week !!

Opps, as for Jarrod Hayne, averaging 7 yards rushing is nothing to sneeze at, pre-season or not.

 He probably won't be the 49ers number 1 RB this season, but give him a year on special teams and perhaps the odd job on offence and I will be interested in just how much he might improve and be able to do in his 2nd and 3rd years in the game.

Packers fan here too, I disagree with your injury philosophy, if your best players don't get a run in the pre-season, they start the season lacking match fitness, it could cost you early wins in the season proper. Pre-season games exist for a reason, clubs need to make the best use of them that they can.

Back to the Packers, I'm excited to see what Myles White and Jeff Janis can bring with Jordy out for the season. Also how good has Hundley been as a rookie QB?!! Bring on the Bears next week !!

Adrian Peterson never plays in the pre-season. Hasn't stopped him performing from the first game of the year.

Phil Loadholt (Vikings RT) did his achillies in the second snap PS1. Gone for the year.
They don't play, the don't get injured.

No, it's not.

Punt returners are traditionally either wide receivers, running backs or cornerbacks. They are the fastest blokes in the squad and good at evading tacklers. Every single punt returner or kick returner has an actual position on the depth chart besides 'punt/kick returner'. 2 years ago the vikings (my team) had the best kick returner (Patterson - WR) and punt returner (Sherels - CB) in the league. They also got game time in their actual positions (as listed).

Leading the stats in the pre-season means less than squat. Teams play their 1st string players (less any superstars, ala Adrian Peterson, 2013 MVP who does not play a single second)...then they play their second string players....then they play their 3rd string players....and if they have them, 4th stringers. Everyone gets a go. Usually, the 2nd stringers get most playing time.

He is a second stringer at best and is playing against other second stringers. His offensive line is creating huge holes for him to run through, so all he has to do is run. Good running backs need to work out where and when to run when there are no holes to run into. Great running backs create their own holes.

Look, i've got nothing against the bloke, but just trying to put things in perspective. ;)

To be clear - I wasn't saying that this meant he'd be a certain starter. Just that the article was saying he'd have to be a chance to make the squad on those numbers.

Well  I guess some of us who don't have an NFL team have one now.  ;)

Well  I guess some of us who don't have an NFL team have one now.  ;)

He's officially made the final cut and is on the 53 man roster.

Let it be known that unlike AFL, he can be cut at any time from here on in, including during the season.

True, but his position is somewhat more secure as he's a depth player.  Punters and kickers aren't - teams usually only have 1 on the list of each.  The moment a punter or kicker has a shocker, he might be cut and replaced by the best unlisted punter or kicker because they can't just go to the next guy on the depth chart.  As a punt returner/part-time tail back or receiver, he can sit there waiting for an injury in one of those positions.  It's really only if he gets an early opportunity and it ends in a debacle that he'd have to worry about being cut.

Yeah, but there would be a handful of players on the list that can and will return kicks as well. So he's far from irreplaceable in that regard.

All he has to do is fumble a few returns and questions will be asked.

If the niners like someone on the free agency list and need to cut someone to get him, they might look in Haynes direction if he has fumbled the ball a couple of times.

But that's the difference between punters/kickers and depth players.  The punter and kicker will be thrown in the deep end from the very start.  They will therefore have the opportunity to fail early.  If they do, they're out.  But a depth player may not have any opportunity at all for quite a while.  While that means he won't have the chance to impress, he also has no chance to embarrass himself.  It's not as though they have the ability to show their form in the 2nds and practice sessions would rarely have the sort of full-body-contact which might expose cracks in the psyche.  Even in practice sessions, the depth players would be starved of chances to be involved in snaps.

I guess that he may be given a few plays if there are some early blowout games but in the first half of the year the starters will be given priority.

If Hayne is cut, he is quite likely to get another opportunity elsewhere now. There is a belief that he can play not just in San Francisco, but across the country. He could still fail, of course and he is very likely a long way from starting games, but I would think he would get at least a couple of seasons be it at the 49ers or elsewhere.

Will be really interesting to see him get a crack at the real deal.

If he does well it will have a massive knock-on impact on NRL in particular.

I'm not all that familiar with gridiron but it seems pretty clear that Hayne has made the transition very well, including learning many complicated plays.  In addition, he has brought some attitude and is becoming a bit of a crowd favourite.

You have to admire the young man for giving up his day job to pursue a dream and it seems that he will get there.

Finally, I am amused by the CSC folk who profess to follow and understand gridiron.  Their assessments and pronouncements seem to be at odds with those of NFL experts.  Of course, their views on AFL often seem wide of the mark too  ;)

I'm not all that familiar with gridiron but it seems pretty clear that Hayne has made the transition very well, including learning many complicated plays.  In addition, he has brought some attitude and is becoming a bit of a crowd favourite.

You have to admire the young man for giving up his day job to pursue a dream and it seems that he will get there.

Finally, I am amused by the CSC folk who profess to follow and understand gridiron.  Their assessments and pronouncements seem to be at odds with those of NFL experts.  Of course, their views on AFL often seem wide of the mark too  ;)

The 'experts' have fallen in love with Hayne because he does things they haven't seen before. Like shoulder charge a bloke who is trying to tackle him and sitting him on his behind.

They have also fallen in love with him because he is not american. I can't think of anyone who has played american football who hasn't been born/grew up in the US....besides kickers/punters who regularly come from elsewhere.

IMO a good comparison is someone like Aisake Ohailpin.
He was a good athlete with a good background in another sport.
He did things that had commentators in awe.
He struggled to do the basics well.
He struggled to read the play and get the subtleties of the game right.

Ultimately, Aisake got cut in favour of players who had a better handle on the subtlities of the game. People loved what he could do because he was 'different'.

Same with Hayne.

I tend to agree with you to a certain extent Kruds
Just a word of warning though... Jarryd Hayne is no Aisake o'Hailpin
This is an elite footballer and athlete.

I tend to agree with you to a certain extent Kruds
Just a word of warning though... Jarryd Hayne is no Aisake o'Hailpin
This is an elite footballer and athlete.

....and Aisake didn't play that well in his first 6 months.

Hope Hayne makes it. Long way to go. US sport is far more ruthless and owners do like s good news story at the beginning of the season.

He could fumble twice and never be heard of again.

I tend to agree with you to a certain extent Kruds
Just a word of warning though... Jarryd Hayne is no Aisake o'Hailpin
This is an elite footballer and athlete.

Not doubting Haynes physical attributes, that puts him on a par with the rest of them. Mentally, he's probably stronger than a lot of them. Intellectually, football wise, he is a long way behind them. He has some big flaws in the way he plays the game at present and it could come back to bite him quickly with a bit of bad luck.

American Footballers place a much higher emphasis on holding onto the ball than they do in rugby. It is not uncommon to get someone to go through a whole season without fumbling the ball once. That would be unheard of in rugby.

I reckon this bloke should know what he is talking about so I'll go with his assessment of Hayne's prospects.

Jarryd Hayne will prove to be a nightmare for opponents as he finds his feet in the game, according to the NFL's director of football development Matt Birk.

Citing Hayne's slick running skills and uncompromising toughness, Birk was left questioning how the 27-year-old can be stopped after watching him in the preseason.

"He's kind of a tough match-up if you will on the opposing team, because what kind of player can sit on Jarryd?" Birk told Sky Sports Radio on Monday.

"He's too big, he can overpower the smaller, faster defensive backs and he's probably too fast for some of the bigger, stronger line-backers.

"And that is key in our game of American football. It's about the match-up and Jarryd with his unique skill-set causes a problem for defences there."

I reckon this bloke should know what he is talking about so I'll go with his assessment of Hayne's prospects.

Jarryd Hayne will prove to be a nightmare for opponents asIF he finds his feet in the game, according to the NFL's director of football development Matt Birk.

For Hayne, being used as a running back, he needs to get past the line of scrimmage first. To do that he has to hope his offensive line can make a big enough hole for him to get through. If they do, like any running back, he will do well.

If they cannot make a big enough hole for him, he will struggle to pick the right gaps and get the right timing to break through the line and get into the secondary, where he will be taking on the defensive backs and linebackers mentioned in the article which he might have an advantage over.

Football is a team game. He will rarely be one-on-one in the secondary and will have up to 6 players trying to tackle him at once. Doesn't matter how big and strong you are in 1-on-1 if you face those numbers.

For any casual NFL fans out there, you may know the name Tim Tebow. If not, look it up.

He is/was a quarterback who did tremendous things out on the turf when given a go. He won the heismann trophy (MVP of all college players). He was the great white hope. 'Tebow Time' was coined and the whole world had Tebowmania. He was talked up by everyone in NFL circles.

He has been cut by 4 teams since and is currently without a team at all. Tebowmania has come from nowhere, reached the highest of heights and disappeared into obscurity in the space of 5 years.

Hayne as good as he is, hasn't got a quarter of the talent that Tebow has. Hasn't got a hundredth of the hype. Everyone needs to lower their expectations on what to expect from him.

49ers first game of the year is against my vikings. I will be watching every second of that and will be happy to report on how well he did/does if/when he actually gets out there.

I think that Hayne making the list is a remarkable achievement and I wouldn't really be surprised if he doesn't go much further.  However, I have a feeling that he is going to have an impact.  I'm not sure why, perhaps because of his determination.

Not sure why but some people seem very determined to talk him down.

Not sure why but some people seem very determined to talk him down.

You say talk him down. I say everyone is overrating him.

As DJC said. Him simply making the list is unheard of. Anything he does from here is a bonus. Making a meaningful impact to the team is like Jimmy Stynes winning the brownlow. A million to 1 shot!

If they cannot make a big enough hole for him, he will struggle to pick the right gaps and get the right timing to break through the line and get into the secondary, where he will be taking on the defensive backs and linebackers mentioned in the article which he might have an advantage over.

I'm ignorant in terms of the game Kruds.
I found this bit interesting though.
This is one area where League players excel.
It's "bread and butter" stuff finding those gaps and timing a break in a defensive line.
You would think his instincts would dictate that this is one area where he'd shine

Of course as you point out it's a different game.

For Hayne, being used as a running back, he needs to get past the line of scrimmage first. To do that he has to hope his offensive line can make a big enough hole for him to get through. If they do, like any running back, he will do well.

If they cannot make a big enough hole for him, he will struggle to pick the right gaps and get the right timing to break through the line and get into the secondary, where he will be taking on the defensive backs and linebackers mentioned in the article which he might have an advantage over.

I thought that'd be an important part of Rugby League, which he did well, hence why he's been good so far. Anyway, like here, practice games don't tell us that much, it's usually for those needing to make an impression. Real games have alot more pressure, so time will tell, but he can only perform with what's in front of him and so far so good.

I'm ignorant in terms of the game Kruds.
I found this bit interesting though.
This is one area where League players excel.
It's "bread and butter" stuff finding those gaps and timing a break in a defensive line.
You would think his instincts would dictate that this is one area where he'd shine

Of course as you point out it's a different game.

I'm far from the biggest league fan going around. But i've probably watched more league games than you have NFL games, so i'll give it a crack.

In league, you generally have a wall of players in a line stretching across the field. You might have 1 guy hanging out the back, full back? You pretty much go 1-on-1 in terms of matchups across the width of the ground and try a few things to MAKE a gap or get people tripping over themselves to find space. (overlaps, cut backs etc). Ultimately, the best players are the ones who can break the lines. Whether they run over a player or sidestep them. Feel free to correct me if i'm wrong with any of the above.

Now in NFL you have 'layers' of players, not just 1 line spanning the field.
You have the big fat guys from both sides who line up on the line about a foot away from their opponent. Then you have the cornerbacks who are on or about the line but are out wide who match up on the wide receivers (think wingers). Behind the fat blokes you have linebackers. Usually 3 or 4 of them. They kinda guard space and pick up anyone who breaks through the line, or comes across into it (wide receivers). Then behind them again, way out the back, you have the safeties, 2 of. They are the last line and play a 'loose man' role. Zoning off and picking up anyone who gets through the rest of the defense.

You can either run or pass in the game as a basic rule.

If you pass, then Hayne will be either be used as a body guard for people trying to hit the quarterback. Nothing spectacular to do here. Easy.
or
He will present up the field as an option to be thrown too. Learning when, where and how to present into the right area (run routes) is one of the hardest things to master. A lot of video, practice and theory goes into this for WRs and to a lesser extent, running backs - Hayne. Very difficult to master, but they can keep his plays 'simple' to begin with.

If they choose to run the ball, this is where its all on him.
To be an effective runner you need a few things in your favour.
1. A good passing game.....so the defense don't know if/when you are actually going to run the ball. Keep them guessing = element of surprise.
2. A good offensive line (fat blokes up front) to block the defense to give you somewhere to run too.

He certainly has 1. Based on a few plays this pre-season, it appears he has 2 as well. Perfect!

Just like Route running when trying to catch, knowing where, when and how to 'run' takes a lot of video watching, practice and theory is involved. A simple 'run up the middle' play can have quite a few variations to it. Those variations are automatic based on how the defense is set up. Reading that is a big deal. Knowing who is likely to run where at what given time, yardage and group that is out on the field can quickly get you undone if you get it wrong. Players, patterns and percentages. Know them, study them.

Assuming he is well drilled in all the above, then we can actually start the play! All of the above is analysed in the say, 20 seconds before they start the play, with the help of the QB. Up to this point, his head (and possibly yours) is spinning. So many different things COULD happen. So many things COULD go wrong.

Now as you can appreciate, having a play designed is 1 thing, having it work is another. If it works, you look a million bucks. Some of his 'highlight reels' are because the play worked, not because he did anything spectacular. The offensive line have made huge holes for him to run through (2m+ wide spaces where my grandma can get through). If he does get through THEN he is in the 'open field' and can work his magic in some more 1-on-1 contests, albeit with about 6 guys making it over to him at various stages, or all at once. He is big enough and fast enough that a lot of the linebackers, cornerbacks and safeties that are 'in the secondary' aren't really going to intimidate him. But believe me, there are plenty of bigger and tougher blokes out there that he will come across. They are all bigger, faster, smarter and stronger than the blokes he has been playing against so far in the pre-season.

Ok, take it back a step. What happens when you are running, but a play 'doesnt work'? The gap you were hoping to be there is not, instead it is filled by a 260 pound linebackers sprinting right at you. You have about 1/4 second to work out what to do before you are flattened. Do you stop, try and dodge him, run the other way run backwards?? You can do all of those things. Sometimes it might work. Most of the time it doesn't. What the best running backs can do is basically see how the play is turning out and run to a gap that isn't there yet. It's counterintuitive, especially for a league player. The thing is, if you see a gap, the defense also sees the gap, and they usually get to it about the same time as you do (unless its a huge gap as mentioned earlier). You need to not only run to a place where you can get through, but run to a place that the defenders don't think you can get through. Sometimes the smallest gaps are the best as you can sneak past players charging at you through the more obvious gaps. Sometimes you can 'make gaps' by knowing what a given defender will do in a given situation and trick him into thinking he has you covered. Easier said than done though.

So far he's learned 100+ plays, analysed the 20+ defenders from each of the 14 teams he'll play that season, knowing the strengths and weaknesses of all the above before he's been able to put anything into practice. If by some miracle, he has his head around all of that, he will face perhaps his biggest challenge. Holding onto the ball! Americans treasure ball security over everything else. Drop the ball and you are shunned. Drop the ball twice and they are looking to your backup to take over. Drop it 3 times and you may not have a career anymore. The americans are so paranoid about ball security that if there is a loose ball, they have an unwritten rule that if you are a 'fat bloke' don't even try and pick it up, simply fall on it. If you try and pick it up, you will probably fumble it. He'll have a good starting point from League, but its not that simple. Kick a league ball, an american football and an AFL ball. Similar basics, hard to get perfect. Same with holding it and bracing for tackles.

Clear as mud?

Again, what he has done thus far is enormous.
Making the squad and excelling is a whole different ball game. ;)
The players he is competing with at the same position are probably all as fit, fast and strong as he is...but have a better understanding of how to actually play the game.

So because of all of the above, he probably won't be used much in that manor. He'll be used in much the same way a FB would be used in league. Playing deep and returning kicks. Which only happens a handful of times a game.

Looks like Bruce Ellington is the first-choice punt returner.

Can we change the thread title to "Kruddlers Overly Long Winded and Needlessly Complicated Explanations of Simple Concepts In American Football" ;D

You know it makes sense. ;D

Looks like Bruce Ellington is the first-choice punt returner.

Where'd you get that info from?

Tried looking for the 49ers depth chart last night, but they hadn't sorted it out yet.

I'm far from the biggest league fan going around. But i've probably watched more league games than you have NFL games, so i'll give it a crack.

In league, you generally have a wall of players in a line stretching across the field. You might have 1 guy hanging out the back, full back? You pretty much go 1-on-1 in terms of matchups across the width of the ground and try a few things to MAKE a gap or get people tripping over themselves to find space. (overlaps, cut backs etc). Ultimately, the best players are the ones who can break the lines. Whether they run over a player or sidestep them. Feel free to correct me if i'm wrong with any of the above.

Thanks for the explanation Kruds  :D

Just on the top part .....it's probably a little more complicated than a line going one-on-one.
I've done some conditioning work with some senior District League teams and they actually spend a lot of time at training on tactics to create those overlaps etc.
They'll practice plays to stack one side and then switch play and a whole range of other set plays.
That's at a level a couple of steps below NRL so I'd imagine at the top level it's even more thorough.

It's obviously still nowhere near the playbook of an NFL side but I suspect a player like Hayne would be skilled in multiple line breaking situations.

Ok, take it back a step. What happens when you are running, but a play 'doesnt work'? The gap you were hoping to be there is not, instead it is filled by a 260 pound linebackers sprinting right at you. You have about 1/4 second to work out what to do before you are flattened. Do you stop, try and dodge him, run the other way run backwards?? You can do all of those things. Sometimes it might work. Most of the time it doesn't. What the best running backs can do is basically see how the play is turning out and run to a gap that isn't there yet. It's counterintuitive, especially for a league player. The thing is, if you see a gap, the defense also sees the gap, and they usually get to it about the same time as you do (unless its a huge gap as mentioned earlier). You need to not only run to a place where you can get through, but run to a place that the defenders don't think you can get through. Sometimes the smallest gaps are the best as you can sneak past players charging at you through the more obvious gaps. Sometimes you can 'make gaps' by knowing what a given defender will do in a given situation and trick him into thinking he has you covered. Easier said than done though

.

I don't think that's terribly unlike a League situation.

We'll have to agree to disagree a bit on that Lods. ;)

FYI, the 'depth chart' for the first game has been released/announced.

From the 53 man roster, 46 guys actually 'dress' on game day...which means they can actually play.

Hayne made the 46.

In terms of Running Back (RB) - he is 3rd (out of 4). Usually, you only see 2 actually get game time unless there is an injury.
In terms of Punt/kick returner - he is =2nd out of 3.

That pretty much confirms what i've expected. He makes the team, but you might not see him actually out on the ground.

As is often the case with players in his position, if/when he gets the chance, he better make the most of it, as he may not get another one.

OK, so first game for Hayne has been run and won. 49ers beat my vikings 20-3.

Yes, Hayne did make the 46 who dressed.
Yes, Hayne did make it out on the field......although that was helped by an injury to the 2nd running back Reggie Bush who did his calf in the 1st quarter not to return.

So Hayne first made it out on the field on special teams to return a punt. After talking him up the Awe-see rugby star misjudged the ball in the air, dove forward for the ball and.....FUMBLE. Ball recovered by the vikings.

THE worst start possible for him.

He subbed in at RB.
1st down - He got a handoff. First 'real' touch for the game. Run right. 1 yard gain. Meh.
2nd down - pass, he was a blocker, but had nobody to block.
3rd & 19 - Dump pass to Hayne in the backfield. Sidestepped the first guy who overcommitted got 7 yards in a play where the defense were just protecting the first down line. Nothing play.

Next time he came out was as a punt returner again. Got kicked the ball. Caught it, returned in an easy 10 yards. Meh.
Flag on the play, meant the ball had to be rekicked.
Interestingly, 49ers subbed him out for the rekick. Ellington (Haynes biggest rival for punt returner). Long punt. Caught and returned....for a TD! Another flag on the play. Called back.

Head to head battle, Ellington got the better of Hayne.

Hayne back on as running back. 2 yard gain on a run right. Meh.

Another punt return opportunity, 49ers go with Ellington again.

Hayne back on as running back. 9 yard gain up the middle. Good solid run. Decent gap. Nothing spectacular.
Another run up the middle. No gain.
Passing attempt, Hayne required to block, makes block allows time for Kap to make a completed pass. Good block.

That is all.

End result...
Hayne
4 carries for 13 yards.
1 catch for 7 yards.
1 return, fumble lost.

Got more gametime courtesy of an injury than expected. Didn't disgrace himself, but nothing to get excited about.

As a comparison, their #1 running back (2nd season) had a blinder and picked apart the vikings defense.
Hyde.
26 carries for 168 yards for 2 TDs.
2 catches for 12 yards

Where to now?
Haynes first up fumble will hurt his career. It already showed with Ellington taking over returns in game 1. That could potentially be in order to keep Hayne fresh to sub in as backup running back, but given he was rarely used in that role, i suspect it's more about his fumble.

He might get more gametime as a backup running back while bush recovers from his calf, but then again, Bush might be back next week.

Overall grade: D+

Kade Simpson didn't get a possession in his first three games....so he's ahead of him ;D

Take away the nervous first-up drop seems like he had a good game in his first real hitout. Will just get better from here. For someone with no background in the game he's doing pretty well.

We'll have to agree to disagree a bit on that Lods. ;)

FYI, the 'depth chart' for the first game has been released/announced.

From the 53 man roster, 46 guys actually 'dress' on game day...which means they can actually play.

Hayne made the 46.

In terms of Running Back (RB) - he is 3rd (out of 4). Usually, you only see 2 actually get game time unless there is an injury.
In terms of Punt/kick returner - he is =2nd out of 3.

That pretty much confirms what i've expected. He makes the team, but you might not see him actually out on the ground.

As is often the case with players in his position, if/when he gets the chance, he better make the most of it, as he may not get another one.

Possibly one of the most negative things I've ever read.

And clearly wide of the mark to boot!

We'll have to agree to disagree a bit on that Lods. ;)

FYI, the 'depth chart' for the first game has been released/announced.

From the 53 man roster, 46 guys actually 'dress' on game day...which means they can actually play.

Hayne made the 46.

In terms of Running Back (RB) - he is 3rd (out of 4). Usually, you only see 2 actually get game time unless there is an injury.
In terms of Punt/kick returner - he is =2nd out of 3.

That pretty much confirms what i've expected. He makes the team, but you might not see him actually out on the ground.

As is often the case with players in his position, if/when he gets the chance, he better make the most of it, as he may not get another one.

I defer to your superior knowledge of the game, but you were clearly wrong.

OK, so first game for Hayne has been run and won. 49ers beat my vikings 20-3.

Yes, Hayne did make the 46 who dressed.
Yes, Hayne did make it out on the field......although that was helped by an injury to the 2nd running back Reggie Bush who did his calf in the 1st quarter not to return.

So Hayne first made it out on the field on special teams to return a punt. After talking him up the Awe-see rugby star misjudged the ball in the air, dove forward for the ball and.....FUMBLE. Ball recovered by the vikings.

THE worst start possible for him.

He subbed in at RB.
1st down - He got a handoff. First 'real' touch for the game. Run right. 1 yard gain. Meh.
2nd down - pass, he was a blocker, but had nobody to block.
3rd & 19 - Dump pass to Hayne in the backfield. Sidestepped the first guy who overcommitted got 7 yards in a play where the defense were just protecting the first down line. Nothing play.

Next time he came out was as a punt returner again. Got kicked the ball. Caught it, returned in an easy 10 yards. Meh.
Flag on the play, meant the ball had to be rekicked.
Interestingly, 49ers subbed him out for the rekick. Ellington (Haynes biggest rival for punt returner). Long punt. Caught and returned....for a TD! Another flag on the play. Called back.

Head to head battle, Ellington got the better of Hayne.

Hayne back on as running back. 2 yard gain on a run right. Meh.

Another punt return opportunity, 49ers go with Ellington again.

Hayne back on as running back. 9 yard gain up the middle. Good solid run. Decent gap. Nothing spectacular.
Another run up the middle. No gain.
Passing attempt, Hayne required to block, makes block allows time for Kap to make a completed pass. Good block.

That is all.

End result...
Hayne
4 carries for 13 yards.
1 catch for 7 yards.
1 return, fumble lost.

Got more gametime courtesy of an injury than expected. Didn't disgrace himself, but nothing to get excited about.

As a comparison, their #1 running back (2nd season) had a blinder and picked apart the vikings defense.
Hyde.
26 carries for 168 yards for 2 TDs.
2 catches for 12 yards

Where to now?
Haynes first up fumble will hurt his career. It already showed with Ellington taking over returns in game 1. That could potentially be in order to keep Hayne fresh to sub in as backup running back, but given he was rarely used in that role, i suspect it's more about his fumble.

He might get more gametime as a backup running back while bush recovers from his calf, but then again, Bush might be back next week.

Overall grade: D+

Once again, I admit that I know next to nothing about the game but the professional commentators seem to have a different view of Hayne's performance.

As I said previously, making the roster was a fantastic achievement but actually getting game time and performing adequately is unbelievable.  Don't forget that it is Hayne's first NFL game and his opponents will have been playing the game all of their lives.  They are unlikely to improve but Hayne can only get better.  On today's performance, I reckon that he is going to make a success of his NFL career.

Of course, that raises the question of how his success will attract the attention of NFL talent scouts to likely NRL and AFL players.  Nat Fyfe would seem to have the required attributes.

I defer to your superior knowledge of the game, but you were clearly wrong.

CLEARLY wrong?

I said you might not see him out there?

If there wasn't an injury in the first quarter you only would've seen him out there for 2 plays. 1 his fumble. 2 a play that had to be replayed due to a flag.

That injury was huge for him. The only injury for the game, happened to be the one that could actually help him get out there.

In AFL terms, it's like have a bench of 20 players. 3 ruckman in total. 3rd is there as backup only. 2nd ruckman gets injured. 3rd gets on the ground for 3 minutes in the whole game.

Possibly one of the most negative things I've ever read.

What exactly was so negative about it?

In terms of Running Back (RB) - he is 3rd (out of 4). Usually, you only see 2 actually get game time unless there is an injury.
In terms of Punt/kick returner - he is =2nd out of 3.

That comes directly from the club. See for yourself...
http://www.49ers.com/team/depth-chart.html
(http://prod.static.49ers.clubs.nfl.com/assets/images/imported/SF/090915-Depth-HDR3.jpg)

Take away the nervous first-up drop seems like he had a good game in his first real hitout. Will just get better from here. For someone with no background in the game he's doing pretty well.

No, he's doing exceptionally well.

This is what people need to understand from my critique of him.

I am an doing it from an unbiased position, as in, if i was coach and he was on my team.
What can he give me in terms of output. At this stage, very little.

From an Aussie point of view, he's doing something nobody else has done. He is to be commended and applauded for it. Great story. He will get better every week.

BUT, fact is, compared to his competition, he is below average. That is not a slight on him, thats just the reality. There are 350million americans. College football coaches are the highest paid profession in something like 20% of states in america. It is HUGE business that a lot of people take very seriously. This is what he is competing with. Don't lose site of that. He is so far behind the 8-ball that he may never catch up. Doesn't mean what he has done hasn't been amazing.

Perspective people.

Take away the nervous first-up drop seems like he had a good game in his first real hitout. Will just get better from here. For someone with no background in the game he's doing pretty well.

That's the way I see it too - admittedly from an uninformed perspective.

@Kruddler

I think we all appreciate the fact that he still has a lot to learn.
It's just a bit of a kick to see him doing as well as he has.
There was always going to be a "fumble" moment somewhere along the way.

This is not like a very good college basketballer coming from the USA to try his hand at Australian Football.... as sometimes happens.
This is akin to LeBron James coming out to play.
Imagine if it was an Ablett or Fyfe who made the move
That's why the hype.

I'm not sure about the coverage it's getting in Melbourne but it's a bit of a  "kick along" for the sport of NFL up here.

I have read a articles from the US and we also have to be careful of tall poppy syndrome in talking down his efforts as well. Some pretty well respected commentators on the game and former players have really talked up his capabilities. Jerry Rice said he reminded him of himself, that is incredible praise, another commentator said if 49ers had not have taken him, 20 other clubs would have, he had displayed enough to that stage.

He could fail, but most are putting their money on him making it from what I can see and these are people who really do know the game as well, not Aussie jounos

I reckon he will make it.

why?

Well, he is good enough to be a depth player, and it suits an agenda for them to have an Australian "be succesful" in converting to the game.

It opens up another market for them, its a feel good story, and from a marketing perspective might give the game more spotlight in another country which all adds up to $$$ for TV rights.

He will be given every opportunity, and only if he is rubbish will they cast him off.

http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=9030834

Jarryd Hayne's NFL regular-season debut for the San Francisco 49ers drew a television audience of 116,000 for ESPN in Australia, topping last season's record mark of 107,100 for the Super Bowl XLVIII.

Monday's match against the Minnesota Vikings was broadcast live at 12.15pm and was the biggest audience ever for the sports network, according to media, marketing and entertainment website Mumbrella.

I have read a articles from the US and we also have to be careful of tall poppy syndrome in talking down his efforts as well. Some pretty well respected commentators on the game and former players have really talked up his capabilities. Jerry Rice said he reminded him of himself, that is incredible praise, another commentator said if 49ers had not have taken him, 20 other clubs would have, he had displayed enough to that stage.

He could fail, but most are putting their money on him making it from what I can see and these are people who really do know the game as well, not Aussie jounos

I've watched plenty of NFL people talk about him too.

In Australia we do have tall poppy syndrome.
In america they have whatever the opposite is. They talk people up so much. I made mention of Tebowmania before. No club wants him now and he is becoming a commentator.
The NBA had LINsanity for a while and he was the next greatest thing. He couldn't even get through the front door at his new team because security didn't believe he actually played.

I agree with Thry, he will stick around because of his story. Americans love aussies. He is getting extra coverage because there were 2 aussies in the NBA finals recently. Aussies, and thus Hayne, are very much flavour of the month in american sports.

I have talked about Hayne with 4 separate people, 2 of which are 49ers supporters. None of which think what he has done deserve the hype he is getting.

I reckon he will make it.

why?

Well, he is good enough to be a depth player, and it suits an agenda for them to have an Australian "be succesful" in converting to the game.

It opens up another market for them, its a feel good story, and from a marketing perspective might give the game more spotlight in another country which all adds up to $$$ for TV rights.

He will be given every opportunity, and only if he is rubbish will they cast him off.

I think he will too, but I don't think it has to do with marketing.
Pro Ball is way to big a sport to pick a random aussie for the story. It is cut throat and he is only there on merit.
Make no mistake this industry is brutal. I don't follow it as much since I am back in Australia, but it is massive in the states at college and pro level. Building their base in Australia would not mean enough to have a player who can't play at pro level.

He may be depth, but as you can see if he is on the field and making mistakes like that, the 49ers will be scored against.
No he is there because they genuinely think he is a good enough footballer, which is remarkable.

http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/article.aspx?id=9030834

Haha, I missed it, I was sleeping, however I was up at 3am to watch my Packers beat the Bears !! :)

I think he will too, but I don't think it has to do with marketing.
Pro Ball is way to big a sport to pick a random aussie for the story. It is cut throat and he is only there on merit.
Make no mistake this industry is brutal. I don't follow it as much since I am back in Australia, but it is massive in the states at college and pro level. Building their base in Australia would not mean enough to have a player who can't play at pro level.

He may be depth, but as you can see if he is on the field and making mistakes like that, the 49ers will be scored against.
No he is there because they genuinely think he is a good enough footballer, which is remarkable.

Of course MIO. I agree.   That's why I said he'd get every opportunity to prove he is up to it unless he is complete rubbish but we know from our own team how much a convert can be scapegoated if they travel poorly.

Tuohy and Setanta have both been criticised to the point where everyone else was pretty crap too was ignored but the soft targets are easily hit.

"I still have a long way to go and learned a tough lesson tonight," said Hayne in the locker room after the match.

It's ok when he says it...but not when i say it.  ???

(https://louiseisawesome.files.wordpress.com/2010/05/haynetrainderailed.jpg?w=500)

Yeah he is at about 25% fumble/drop on punt returns so far, which isn't going to cut it, but the latest one is a rookie mistake. He takes the hit holding the ball and there is no problem, he just needs to learn that more. Kids learn that in high school, he still has some real potential, but he will not get that many more chances.

So.....for all the people chastising me for telling it how it is....anyone want to make an apology?

Didn't even suit up today.

So.....for all the people chastising me for telling it how it is....anyone want to make an apology?

Didn't even suit up today.

I'll admit I know very little about it .
So yep you called it pretty right.
The thing is that punt return thing is a bit of a wanky position.
He'd be a lot better just running the ball but it looks like there are a couple of pretty competent blokes in front of him.

I'll admit I know very little about it .
So yep you called it pretty right.
The thing is that punt return thing is a bit of a wanky position.
He'd be a lot better just running the ball but it looks like there are a couple of pretty competent blokes in front of him.

It is a wanky position, but that is the reason he made the team. If he can't do that, he's got no hope.

The thing with running the ball is you can't fumble it. If you do, your career will be very short. The fact he keeps fumbling on punt returns means coaches are not likely to take a chance with him on offense.

In fairness to him, he has made two rookie mistakes. In one he didn't protect the ball, the other he didn't read the drop/swirl.

I think they will persist with him a bit longer, because he is a very talented athlete and they know this, but there is work to do. He was also shown up with not covering the quarterback, but he isn't the first running back or in Tackle/Guard to do that either, or else we would seen a QB ever sacked.

I think another major drop though in his next game and it would be thanks, but it isn't working.
If he was born a yank playing the game he would likely be an absolute superstar of the game, that is why they will keep trying I think.

That and they are sh1te anyway. Just about the worst team in the country, so his mistakes are not costing games any more than other players on the team, just the spotlight is right on him.

At least that is my take on it.
They could just cut him as well :)

In fairness to him, he has made two rookie mistakes. In one he didn't protect the ball, the other he didn't read the drop/swirl.

I think they will persist with him a bit longer, because he is a very talented athlete and they know this, but there is work to do. He was also shown up with not covering the quarterback, but he isn't the first running back or in Tackle/Guard to do that either, or else we would seen a QB ever sacked.

I think another major drop though in his next game and it would be thanks, but it isn't working.
If he was born a yank playing the game he would likely be an absolute superstar of the game, that is why they will keep trying I think.

That and they are sh1te anyway. Just about the worst team in the country, so his mistakes are not costing games any more than other players on the team, just the spotlight is right on him.

At least that is my take on it.
They could just cut him as well :)

...and thats what i was saying about him. He has so much to learn just to catch up to high school guys in terms of basics.

Even IF he gets that up to scratch and he hasn't been cut in the meantime, he still needs to leapfrog blokes who are likely faster, stronger and more knowledgeable than him to even make an impact.

Never knocked the bloke for what he has been able to achieve, but things are so far stacked against him, that reality is that he will not live up to even half the amount of hype surrounding him. Which was my point.

I reckon that he has achieved far more than most folk expected and I suspect that he will go on to bigger and better things.  It's not going to happen overnight though and he will have to address some basic skill errors if he is to progress.

Clearly, those that gave him the opportunity to play NFL understood his limitations and his upside and I suspect that their assessment is a lot closer to the mark than that of the armchair critics - Kruddler's expertise notwithstanding  ;)

Just quietly the only reason he has a spot is because he is an Aussie convert and gets us talking more about the game down under.

Just quietly the only reason he has a spot is because he is an Aussie convert and gets us talking more about the game down under.

I really don't think they give a fat rat's clacker about whether we're talking about the game.  The potential market here is minuscule compared to what they have now and they are too hard-nosed to consider novelty value. 

Perhaps he was cheap  ???

Well Kruddler was right.

You don't get to drop the ball too often ;D

Sky News reporting....
Hayne has been 'released' by the 49ers
Get the first plane home Jarryd....and we'll rookie draft you ;)

( Edit: It seems as though the 49ers have dropped Hayne to elevate another player. They can drop Hayne back to their non-playing squad or he can be picked up by another team.)


http://www.foxsports.com.au/us-sports/nfl/jarryd-hayne-san-francisco-49ers-australian-waived-to-make-way-for-running-back-kendall-gaskins/story-fnp3l4e4-1227589708199

It's over for Hayne, he dropped the ball!

Hayne will get picked up by another team or go to the 49ers practice squad.....he still has a chance to make it...

Some folk are suggesting that Hayne is a scapegoat for the 49ers' poor form:

Former St. Louis Cardinals defensive end Colin Scotts was furious with the San Francisco franchise for culling Hayne, saying he was being blamed for the whole team’s poor performances.

“Jarryd was the first scapegoat, it’s devastating to me. They’ve made a massive mistake,” Scotts said while speaking on Fox Sports News.

“If I showed you last week when he missed a block I can show you a dozen other players who are missing blocks also on just one play, but he gets amplified because he’s Australian and they say he’s inexperienced and gets made a scapegoat.

“They are a team that is desperate. They’re panicking, they’re looking for someone to blame.

“49ers, I’m sorry, mate, but I’m disgusted.”

Hayne is still positive about his future and I reckon, if attitude is anything to go on, he will succeed.

For those of us who don't really understand the game it's a bit bizarre.

My gut feeling is that if they'd played to his strengths and given him some extended time running the ball then we would have seen him in a much better light than what we have.
But he really hasn't been given that opportunity so it's a little frustrating.

Still they're obsessed with this ball security....so he'll find it hard.
If another team picks him up will he have to learn a whole lot of new plays?

For those of us who don't really understand the game it's a bit bizarre.

My gut feeling is that if they'd played to his strengths and given him some extended time running the ball then we would have seen him in a much better light than what we have.
But he really hasn't been given that opportunity so it's a little frustrating.

Still they're obsessed with this ball security....so he'll find it hard.
If another team picks him up will he have to learn a whole lot of new plays?

I cant answer much about NFL, but generally speaking, they all use the same (or similar) plays with a few variances largely centred around the skillset of the teams at the time.

We bang on about the AFL over and over again and game plans, but largely the game plan is not as important as to how well drilled the side is.  If they all are on the same page they execute plans and the team plays better more often than not, and the same applies to NFL, or any team sport really.

Hayne will have to learn a few new things at a different club, but largely it would centre around his teammates, and how they play rather than new plans so to speak.  They all know each other's plans too, as they have to counter them.

This is an absolute elite athlete...his mindset would be "I'll show them I have what it takes."
Hopefully he's given an opportunity.
If not the NRL will welcome him back with open arms. ;)

If another team picks him up will he have to learn a whole lot of new plays?

Yeap that is what will make it tough.
But what is a bit stupid here is that the 49ers are in the best position to play him.
Their season is already over, they are crape. He might have let his QB get sacked, but then they have been sacked already 25 times this season.
He hasn't cost them this season, their entire team has.

You would hope Seattle or someone picks him up instead of 49ers as I think he is more chance of getting a shot.

Hayne is back on the 49ers' roster and is set to play . . .

Just a few hours after San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Tomsula confirmed Reggie Bush as the team's top punt returner, Hayne was thrown a lifeline and is set to play the St Louis Rams on Sunday (Monday AEDT).

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/sport/us-sports/injury-paves-way-for-jarryd-hayne-nfl-return-for-san-francisco-49ers-20151030-gknj4f.html#ixzz3qKKn3mnf

Hayne is back on the 49ers' roster and is set to play . . .

Just a few hours after San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Tomsula confirmed Reggie Bush as the team's top punt returner, Hayne was thrown a lifeline and is set to play the St Louis Rams on Sunday (Monday AEDT).

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/sport/us-sports/injury-paves-way-for-jarryd-hayne-nfl-return-for-san-francisco-49ers-20151030-gknj4f.html#ixzz3qKKn3mnf

 ???

Isn't that last weeks news.....Before he was cut?
They played the Rams on the weekend.
I don't think he's been reinstated yet.

???

Isn't that last weeks news.....Before he was cut?
They played the Rams on the weekend.
I don't think he's been reinstated yet.

I think the Age mixed up the links.  The correct article is reporting that Reggie Bush has a suspected torn ACL and Mike Davis injured his foot.  Of course that doesn't mean that they'll reinstate Hayne.

In fact, if I understand the system, other clubs have first dibs.

Apparently, he cleared waivers.  He'll therefore stay with SF and we'll have to wait on whether he'll be on the practice squad or not: click HERE (http://www.huffingtonpost.com.au/2015/11/03/hayne-waiver-49ers_n_8456170.html?utm_hp_ref=australia).

The AFL should bring a system like this in for rookies. Let clubs shuffle them around to cover early season long term injuries, etc., etc. Perhaps with a 1/4 to 1/3 season cut-off.

It would stop clubs having ruined seasons due to early injuries, and make the smaller lists far more manageable.

There used to be a mid-season draft but it was dumped because clubs didn't use it.

Of course, there is a big difference in the way the 2 competitions handle contracts.  In the NFL, contracts aren't really contracts.  Unless the contract is "guaranteed", it can be terminated at a moment's notice and no payout is needed.  That makes it far easier for teams to shuffle their decks by waiving players and signing others up.  The AFLPA would scream blue murder if the AFL tried to take away the security of fixed contracts in the name of adding flexibility to lists.  The players may, however, undermine the sanctity of fixed-term contracts if players having a year or more left on their contracts continue to insist on trades to designated clubs or else they'll refuse to play.

practice squad it is, they signed up someone else.

In the week off before finals they should introduce a mini trade week where you can trade a hendo or Yarran into a finals side for their draft picks at the end of the year  ;D

Well Kruddler was right.

You don't get to drop the ball too often ;D

Sky News reporting....
Hayne has been 'released' by the 49ers
Get the first plane home Jarryd....and we'll rookie draft you ;)

( Edit: It seems as though the 49ers have dropped Hayne to elevate another player. They can drop Hayne back to their non-playing squad or he can be picked up by another team.)


http://www.foxsports.com.au/us-sports/nfl/jarryd-hayne-san-francisco-49ers-australian-waived-to-make-way-for-running-back-kendall-gaskins/story-fnp3l4e4-1227589708199

Don't sound so shocked lods! :P

Funny how this game works. I tried telling everyone that it was ideal in his first game when his main competition went down early, giving him plenty of exposure. He didn't do anything explosive, and made a few mistakes. Cest la vie.

However, since then he has made a few more. On top of that the 2 blokes in front of him at Running back have been in and out through injury (VERY RARE) and instead of Hayne, your #3 guy stepping up into the #1 role, they decided, rightly, to get someone else in who was capable.

It is simply too soon for Hayne to be expected to carry the #1 role as running back.

He is now in the practice squad which is akin to your rookie list here, but with less benefits in terms of playing.

If he was to go somewhere else, and eventually he probably will, he would have to learn more plays. Although a lot of the plays would be similar, its the nomenclature that would catch you out as much as anything initially. Every team has their own names for their own plays - even though each team uses a basic set of plays.

He is doing everything he possibly can and is going into it with the right attitude. He can do no more than that. He simply just needs to perform when given opportunities.

NFL is a lot more cutthroat than AFL.

They don't have to play you to your strengths.
They don't have to give you opportunities.
If you are there, you do what you have to until you are called upon. When you are, DON'T mess up.

Don't sound so shocked lods! :P

I don't think that's the impression I was aiming for....Not shocked at all.

In fact it's panned out pretty much as you said..... and I think I've credited you with that before. ;)

I'll admit I know very little about it .
So yep you called it pretty right.

However if he turns it around..... you've just earned yourself a big dose of "You don't know what you're talking about." :P :D

I know Lods, i was joking. ;)

He may well turn it around, but i dont think it'll be this year.

My issue was everyone was pumping him up (media) to be the greatest thing since sliced bread. Reality was, he is just another 1 of 1000's who is trying out for a limited number of spots. The reason he was singled out over the other 1000's was because he was from Australia and did a couple of things that were.....unorthodox.

He IS a talented player, but i don't care how talented you are, you can't simply walk into a sport you have never played and expect to compete with 350million americans who eat, sleep and breathe the sport. He will try continue to practice and learn and may bounce around a few teams for a while before he makes it....if ever.

For the record, i never said he wouldn't make it. I said it was unlikely. VERY unlikely he lives up to even 1/100th of the hype that has surrounded him, both here and in the US.

I know Lods, i was joking. ;)

So was I :D ;)
It seems to me it will be very difficult for him to come back from here.
Think I heard the 49ers also signed another running back as well as the one they upgraded.

49ers fabs aren't too pleased about Haynes' demotion.  One bloke tweeted:

Jarryd Hayne in 2015: 8 carries, 25 yards

49ers running backs today: 11 carries, 2 yards

@DJC...
Seems simple and clear cut when you put it like that.

However, as i showed in my play by play analysis, some of Haynes runs in his first game were nothing runs.
3rd and long situations were the defense is protecting the long ball / first down, they will allow a run that gets a few extra yards but not a first down. It means nothing.

In AFL terms, in being 12 goals up and letting the opposition get a goal in the final minute of a game. Meh.

@DJC...
Seems simple and clear cut when you put it like that.

However, as i showed in my play by play analysis, some of Haynes runs in his first game were nothing runs.
3rd and long situations were the defense is protecting the long ball / first down, they will allow a run that gets a few extra yards but not a first down. It means nothing.

In AFL terms, in being 12 goals up and letting the opposition get a goal in the final minute of a game. Meh.

Yes Kruddler, it's a little like some of the comments passionate supporters make here, and presumably in other forums and about other codes.  They're also calling for the 49ers coach's head :)

There's a very good analysis of Hayne's demotion and his future prospects by Cam Inman of Fox Sports:

SPARE Jarryd Hayne any pity that his return Monday to the 49ers comes with a demotion to the practice squad.

His NFL dream remains alive, and this will offer him further lessons so he make a true impact next season — or perhaps later this year.

No, he’s not eligible to play in games unless he’s brought back up to the active roster, and any competitor would hate to not suit up on Sundays.

Hayne, all indications are, is OK with this switch because he knows it’s part of his growth process.

He’s been humble and professional since Day 1, and he was that way Saturday when the 49ers waived him. General manager Trent Baalke said Hayne can cope so well because he’s a 27-year old guy who’s spent a decade in the world of professional athletics.
http://www.foxsports.com.au/us-sports/nfl/nfl-cam-inman-breaks-down-what-the-practice-squad-demotion-means-for-49ers-rookie-jarryd-hayne/story-fnp3l4e4-1227592908135

It's definitely worth a read.

They're also calling for the 49ers coach's head :)

I agree that such a call would be OTT if it were based solely on the demotion of Hayne.  But I would think many people would agree he should get the chop simply for being a crap coach.

There's a guy who is a contributor on KB's Hungry for Sports show.  I can't remember his name, but he's a Yank from Sacramento who comments on US sports.  He also happens to be a big 49ers fan.  He was predicting before the season began that the 49ers would be duds because Tomsula is crap and because they cleared out their good players.  Remember that last year they had Jim Harbaugh as coach and he was highly regarded.  The contributor claimed that there was a behind-the-scenes power struggle between Harbaugh and someone else, either the owner or CEO.  That other person was jealous of the accolades that Harbaugh attracted as he felt that he was the real reason that the 49ers had enjoyed success.  Thus Harbaugh was dumped so this guy could show he could make the 49ers a success even if he hired a monkey to coach.  So Tomsula was selected as no one really rated him (he had been the defensive line coach at the 49ers for years, but as we all know being an assistant coach doesn't mean you have what it takes to run the show).  Now the 49ers stink and Harbaugh is dominating at College level again.

Click HERE (http://www.sfexaminer.com/tomsulas-seat-should-be-hot/) for an article which suggests that Tomsula is seen as the puppet for Jed York (the owner) and Trent Baalke (the CEO).

Click HERE (http://www.sfexaminer.com/tomsulas-seat-should-be-hot/) for an article which suggests that Tomsula is seen as the puppet for Jed York (the owner) and Trent Baalke (the CEO).

The same article implies Hayne has no place in NFL other than as a failed marketing attempt!

The same article implies Hayne has no place in NFL other than as a failed marketing attempt!

Are you suggesting that neither is the case?

Steve Salisbury (spelling??)  is the man from Sacramento.

Are you suggesting that neither is the case?

They are in more trouble than Carlton! ;)

There is no such thing as job security in the NFL as a player, you can be dropped mid-season off a roster at the drop of a hat, with no guarantee of ever being picked up again. While some may be picked up by another team, some 3-4 teams in 1 season, others may do a full pre-season with a team, never to be put on a roster at all!

The only positive is that they are on a very good pay rate while employed by a NFL team.

The Hayne Train has been derailed! ;D

Let me guess I'm really late with that joke aren't I?

Hayne did pretty well on his recall.  He certainly doesn't lack self-belief and, if that's any guide, his NFL career should continue to grow.  The hard work he has put in during his time off the roster hasn't done any harm either.

Hayne did pretty well on his recall.  He certainly doesn't lack self-belief and, if that's any guide, his NFL career should continue to grow.  The hard work he has put in during his time off the roster hasn't done any harm either.

He's probably got to make a decision on going the PED route.

Hayne did pretty well on his recall.  He certainly doesn't lack self-belief and, if that's any guide, his NFL career should continue to grow.  The hard work he has put in during his time off the roster hasn't done any harm either.

Did you watch the game?

I haven't, but checking out the stats he played 2nd fiddle (to what is their 4th rb) and didn't do anything exceptionally good - or bad. Didn't play as a returner which is a sign or how light on they are for RBs....dont want him to get hurt.

In other news, my vikings are playoffs bound and have a showdown with the packers to take out the division next week. Should be a cracking game.

Where's all the Packer fans now? I said we'd rival you for the divisional title. Now we are tied with a head to head to decide it!

Did you watch the game?

I haven't, but checking out the stats he played 2nd fiddle (to what is their 4th rb) and didn't do anything exceptionally good - or bad. Didn't play as a returner which is a sign or how light on they are for RBs....dont want him to get hurt.

In other news, my vikings are playoffs bound and have a showdown with the packers to take out the division next week. Should be a cracking game.

Where's all the Packer fans now? I said we'd rival you for the divisional title. Now we are tied with a head to head to decide it!

No, I only saw him interviewed after the game and listened to a couple of commentators.  Apparently he started, which surprised more than a few, and the commentators were impressed with how much cleaner he was.  I guess he has to be if he is going to have a chance of succeeding.

I didn't see the game either but I read an article which suggested Hayne made a howler in the last quarter which turned over possession when it was close.  Apparently, he needed 3 yards for a 1st down but only ran 2.  I got the impression from the article that Hayne ran out of bounds early although it wasn't all that clear.

Minor issues, they all know he is still learning the game
Cardinals on fire!!!

I didn't see the game either but I read an article which suggested Hayne made a howler in the last quarter which turned over possession when it was close.  Apparently, he needed 3 yards for a 1st down but only ran 2.  I got the impression from the article that Hayne ran out of bounds early although it wasn't all that clear.

I just saw a video which might describe what you were talking about.

In the last quarter, 3rd and 3. Gabbert gets chased out of the pocket as it is collapsing. Hayne presents up field and gets a dump pass thrown to him around the line of scrimmage. He gets immediately tackled close to the sideline.

Not sure if its the same play you read about, but there was nothing Hayne could've done there.

If he was indeed the starter his stats are even more disappointing.
Jarryd Hayne  - 9 attempts for 27 yards with a long run of 11. (avg only 2 yards on other 8 attempts!) - Also 5 catches for 20 yards.
DeJuan Harris* - 11 attempts for 73 yards with a long of 25. - Also 1 catch for 11 yards

Harris beat him all round.

* Should be noted that Harris was only signed to the team this week because they are paper thin in the running backs area - which was also why Hayne was promoted to the game)

He is still learning, no doubt.

But the fact that a guy who was signed to the team 4 days before playing for them was able to outperform Hayne despite being the same age. Shows how much experience matters in this game. For the record Harris has been on the roster of 8 NFL teams, including 5 this year, although mainly as a practice squad member. Although he has game time in 25 games, he has only started in 2......in 2012. There would be 100 players like him readily available to NFL teams. He is a journeyman with no special skills.

That's no doubt the play.  I assume the criticism would be that Hayne should have ensured he was at the 1st down marker so that a completed catch would result in a 1st down.  That's especially the case where the QB is out of the pocket and he can throw it away anyway - 4 & 3 isn't much different from 4 & 1 if you have to punt it away anyway.  I've heard the same criticism directed at other receivers who've failed to establish a position in 1st down territory.

That's no doubt the play.  I assume the criticism would be that Hayne should have ensured he was at the 1st down marker so that a completed catch would result in a 1st down.  That's especially the case where the QB is out of the pocket and he can throw it away anyway - 4 & 3 isn't much different from 4 & 1 if you have to punt it away anyway.  I've heard the same criticism directed at other receivers who've failed to establish a position in 1st down territory.

Well he started off being a blocker, but everyone was picked up and the QB was flushed, so he eventually decided to run down field, he never even got a chance to get to the first down line before the QB dished it to him. He didn't stop short, he just never got there. Unfair criticism IMO.
You can view the play from here - http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2015122705/2015/REG16/49ers@lions?icampaign=GamePass_ScoreStrip_watch#menu=gamepass&tab=recap - it is the next video along scroll right (with Hayne #38 shown).

Should he have left his blocking assignment (or lack of) earlier? Possibly, but its better than leavin too soon and the QB gets sacked.

No, I agree he did well there, so it must have been another play.

This is what Tomsula said at his presser:

Tomsula said Hayne “represented himself well” but was not 100 percent convinced, however, detailing a play where Hayne just failed to reach a first down.

“Jarryd has to get to the sticks there,” Tomsula said in the post-match press conference.

“He has to run that route to the sticks there. That’s just what has to happen there.”

If he was talking about the play in that clip, then he was being harsh.

PS: ...unless the play was designed as a screen pass and Hayne was the go-to receiver.  But it looked more like a busted play.

We have often heard the criticism of trying to turn athletes into AFL players (and how it doesnt work) and in this case it appears the NFL have tried this experiment with Hayne.

He still might make it, but Kruddler makes some really fair criticism of Hayne and its geared around the above thought process.

The last time our footy club looked at this thought process would be Sam Jacobs vs Shaun Hampson.

One was a pudgy kid who could ruck, and the other was an athlete with good size that could be anything.

One has become a better athlete who can ruck and is regarded as one of the top ruckmen in the game without being the best, the other could still be anything but probably wont amount to much without some of the nuances really sinking in.

Odds are even if Hayne "makes it" he wont be elite, the 49ers are better off recruiting a pudgy running back with all the brains, and trying to get the athlete side of him sorted.

Where's all the Packer fans now? I said we'd rival you for the divisional title. Now we are tied with a head to head to decide it!

I'm still here Krudd, The Vikings have done well to go past the Lions in a very short space of time. And from what I have read they were coming from a fair way back!

The Packers have had a Carlton like season with injuries this year, we have made the playoffs, but i doubt we will make much of an impression once the play off's actually get going.

You know you have a strong division when you have 2 sides get to the play off in 2 consecutive years, Lions and Packers last year, Vikings and Packers this year.

As for Hayne, it's nice to see he is getting game time, but he is far from setting the world on fire.

I'm far from getting excited about him, yet.

DeJuan Harris* - 11 attempts for 73 yards with a long of 25. - Also 1 catch for 11 yards

Harris beat him all round.

* Should be noted that Harris was only signed to the team this week because they are paper thin in the running backs area - which was also why Hayne was promoted to the game)

Pretty sure Harris was cut from the Packers roster earlier this season, he was our 4th RB last season, but was overtaken by an undrafted rookie in this years pre-season.

5 of those 8 clubs have been this year Krudds, since the Packers released him!!

Pretty sure Harris was cut from the Packers roster earlier this season, he was our 4th RB last season, but was overtaken by an undrafted rookie in this years pre-season.

5 of those 8 clubs have been this year Krudds, since the Packers released him!!

Yeah the Vikes picked him up 9 days after the packers released him....in the off-season....and cut him in the pre-season.

I'm still here Krudd, The Vikings have done well to go past the Lions in a very short space of time. And from what I have read they were coming from a fair way back!

The Packers have had a Carlton like season with injuries this year, we have made the playoffs, but i doubt we will make much of an impression once the play off's actually get going.

You know you have a strong division when you have 2 sides get to the play off in 2 consecutive years, Lions and Packers last year, Vikings and Packers this year.

Packers and injuries? Who haven't you had? Most of your playmakers are still around.

Vikes have had more than their fair share of injuries too.
We lost starting RT and C for the year in the pre-season. BANG.
We were without our best DB, LB and DT for about a month all at the same time. (Smith, Barr and Joseph) and our defense couldn't cope.
We also lost our starting WR early on, for a few games. Had to start a 5th round rookie in his place....thankfully, Diggs, has turned out to be probably the best rookie WR in the league and is now starting.

Anyway, should be a good game. If we lose, we'll have to do it all again the following week at Lambeau.  :o

Jordy Nelson, our No 1 WR has been out all year, Davante Adams and Jared Abbrederis, our 3rd and 4th WR have also missed more than a few games each. We even had to bring James Jones back to Green Bay after releasing him 2 years ago. (He actually did ok for us early in the season, nothing of note since the bye though.)

Andrew Quarless our No 1 TE has missed most of the season, Luckily Richard Rogers has stood up for us in that position.

But all too often Aaron Rogers just hasn't had anyone to throw the ball to.
Our O-line has been a revolving door, with 1-2 of the starters usually missing each week.
Eddie Lacy our No 1 RB has only missed 1 game but has been playing injured a lot. Only 3 games for 100 yards is well down on his expected production.

Our defense has stood up reasonably well, but our offence which is usually our strength has not had any consistency this year, and has been well down on expected production.

I have very low expectations for Packers for the rest of the season, good luck to the Vikings in the play off's !!

Well he started off being a blocker, but everyone was picked up and the QB was flushed, so he eventually decided to run down field, he never even got a chance to get to the first down line before the QB dished it to him. He didn't stop short, he just never got there. Unfair criticism IMO.
You can view the play from here - http://www.nfl.com/gamecenter/2015122705/2015/REG16/49ers@lions?icampaign=GamePass_ScoreStrip_watch#menu=gamepass&tab=recap - it is the next video along scroll right (with Hayne #38 shown).

Should he have left his blocking assignment (or lack of) earlier? Possibly, but its better than leavin too soon and the QB gets sacked.

The QB washed flushed because Hayne completely missed his assignment.
Hayne then ran to a pointless position which contributed nothing to the teams efforts to achieve a 1st down.
Criticism entirely justified IMHO.

THE San Francisco 49ers cannot definitively say which position Jarryd Hayne is most suited to after his first season in the NFL, but offensive coordinator Geep Chryst has seen enough to suggest the Australian could pose a threat “on both sides of the ball” next season.

Speaking before the 49ers’ season finale against the St Louis Rams, Chryst said it was difficult to pigeon hole Hayne as a special teams ace, a receiver or a third-down back after a debut season defined by promise and frustration in equal measure.

“All those labels we want to define him,” Chryst told reporters. “But he’s kind of an outlier in that he can carry the ball, he can catch the ball, he can run. We’ll have to wait and see where it goes.”

Chryst suggested Hayne was well and truly part of the 49ers’ plans for 2016.

“With experience, he’ll become a really dynamic special-teams player, on both sides of the ball,” Chryst said. “He’s big, he’s hard to block. As he works on fielding punts, he’s going to be a really exciting player to watch moving forward, and we really like him.

“He doesn’t back away from or have to ease into the game. He’s excited to be out there and he’s making plays.”

It will be interesting to see how his career progresses next season.

It will be interesting to see how his career progresses next season.

All that is saying he has a lot of potential, but we can't find a position that he can excel in because he doesn't know enough about the game.

All that is saying he has a lot of potential, but we can't find a position that he can excel in because he doesn't know enough about the game.

Hayne admits that he has a lot to learn:

"I guess over time I'm going to get better," Hayne, who says he can not wait to fly back to Sydney, spend time with friends and family, swim in the surf and drink plenty of coffee, said.

"I'm excited for my future because I'm still learning and still developing."

But Geep Chryst is saying that Hayne has so much upside that they don't yet know how to best use him.  Anyway, it seems that it will be a new team management and coaches who will have that problem next season.

But Geep Chryst is saying that Hayne has so much upside that they don't yet know how to best use him.  Anyway, it seems that it will be a new team management and coaches who will have that problem next season.

Hayne has a very limited window to make something of him.

Running backs barely get a gig after 30. Hayne turns 28 next month.

Adrian Peterson is like the Chris Judd of NFL running backs. He is 30 this year and is leading the NFL rushing title. That is basically unheard of. Running backs are a young mans game.
http://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rush_yds_year_by_year.htm

Since 1932, there has only been 2 players who have won the rushing title being 30yo or more. (Only 1 since 1950!) This year Peterson could make it 3.

Hayne simply converted too late. Too much to learn and not enough time to do it.

http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/2016/01/04/09/19/hayne-coach-at-49ers-facing-sack-report

That's what happens when you don't give an Aussie a fair go ;D

http://wwos.ninemsn.com.au/2016/01/04/09/19/hayne-coach-at-49ers-facing-sack-report

That's what happens when you don't give an Aussie a fair go ;D

Coach actually said one of the highlights of the year was watching Hayne come on.

New coach probably won't be so in favour of Hayne.

In other NFL news.

Vikings win division title!  ;D

First non-packers winner in 6 years!

I listened to a bloke from Gridiron NSW talking about Hayne on News 24 at the weekend.  He was pretty confident that Hayne would continue to develop and, with the right coach, do OK next season.

However, he also spoke about two Aussies playing in the college system.  They have an obvious advantage over Hayne and he predicted that one of them will playing NFL next season.

That should be an interesting development.

In other NFL news.

Vikings win division title!  ;D

First non-packers winner in 6 years!

Congrats, good luck against the seahawks next week !!

Congrats, good luck against the seahawks next week !!

We'll need it!

Hope you guys win through so if a miracle happens and we both get to the conference game we can beat you again!

Not sure if either of us will be playing in week 2 of the playoffs though.  :-\

I'm sure you're all getting behind everybody's faves .........Tom Brady's Pats. C:-)

No?

 ;D

Hayne has more chance of getting a gig next year than Brian Hoyer, QB for the Houston Texans.  He choked badly, coughing up about about 5 interceptions/turnovers to leave the Texans scoreless.

And the Steelers/Bengals game proved why NFL's a bit of a guilty pleasure.  It's like watching heavyweight boxing - talk about skills all you like, but doing damage to opponents is what it's all about.  This was a game which was always going to be brutal.  The referees stood between the teams during their warm-ups and read them the riot act, all to no avail.  With only about 20 seconds left and with the Bengals 1 point up, the Steelers were at the Bengals 45 with only about 20 seconds left and no time-outs remaining.  Roethlisberger then threw it down the middle to about the 30 and the it went through the receiver's hands.  Burfick was running in the opposite direction and could easily have registered that the play was dead but chose to drop the shoulder and smash the receiver, leaving him on the ground for some time.  Burfick was done for headhunting and that put the Steelers in field goal range.  Then another Bengal gave away another penalty for arguing with the ref and that was that.  Burfick was clearly losing it before that incident and the coaches were trying to calm him down.  My God, the guy preferred to try to knock out an opponent rather than winning a play-off.  Says it all about where heads were at, at least those who weren't already concussed or injured.  And there were quite a few of those by that stage.

Go Packers!!! Through the 2nd week of the Playoffs !!

We'll need it!

Hope you guys win through so if a miracle happens and we both get to the conference game we can beat you again!

Not sure if either of us will be playing in week 2 of the playoffs though.  :-\

Ouch what a heart breaking way to miss out.

That was a very gettable field goal.

Ouch what a heart breaking way to miss out.

That was a very gettable field goal.

Successfully got through the day without finding out the result.
Just finished watching it.
Shattered.

That's like Robbie Warnocks miss against Geelong....except worse...its basically a miss from the goalsquare!

Besides that, there were so many times the game could've been put to bed.
Petersons fumble.
Wilsons screwed up snap going for a long 1st down.
Rhodes flags.

Ah well, Its already got the boys fired up for next year. Looks like Greenway is determined to go around again thanks to that loss.


To make matters worse....bloody packers romp it in against the redskins. Was always going to happen though. Skins suck.

So.......nobody wants to talk about the fact that Hayne has 'quit' the NFL?

A lot of people also suggesting that he may have been encouraged to quit because it was pointed out that opportunities would be limited, if not non-existent altogther.

Hate to tell i told you so, but....yeah.

He did more than 99% of people in his situation would've been able to do, but it was never going to be enough.

So.......nobody wants to talk about the fact that Hayne has 'quit' the NFL?

Only to say his excuse about playing rugby at the Olympics was pretty weak...and you're probably right about him getting the tap
He'll be lucky if he's allowed to play anyway as he hasn't been subject to appropriate drug testing in the lead up.

I think there is no doubt we have only heard the sterilized version, there will be much more to this than has been reported.

Also, we should not assume that there isn't money in Fiji Rugby, if you are the right person I am sure it's there in spades.

The Hayne over hype by the Aussie media, particularly in the Northern states, was unjustified.
He was pretty crap, and never really looked up to NFL standard.
So saw the writing on the wall and 'retired' .
The whole situation reminds my of Izzy Falau at GWS.

Chip Kelly apparently has a different view to Kruddler - but then, so do most folk  ;)

SAN Francisco 49ers coach Chip Kelly says he was surprised by Jarryd Hayne’s announcement he was retiring from the NFL to play rugby sevens for Fiji at the Olympics.

Kelly also doused speculation the 49ers were planning to cut Hayne, which led to the Australian making a face-saving exit. The 49ers instead were bullish on Hayne, praising his ability to pick up Kelly’s new offence and excited about using his powerful, 188cm body and skills.

“He’s a really sharp learner,” Kelly told reporters on Tuesday at the 49ers’ Santa Clara facility.

“We were excited. He’s a big body and has a skill set.”

Hayne and the 49ers announced on Sunday that Hayne had made the decision to quit the NFL to pursue his dream of winning a gold medal at the Olympics.

Kelly said he didn’t speak to Hayne about possibly returning to the 49ers after his Olympics stint, although the team holds his rights.

Interesting how Hayne can represent Fiji without ever holding a Fijian passport.  Apparently, there's also a question mark over Hayne's ability to pass the more stringent drug code in force for the Olympics, but I'm not sure how reliable that story is.

had a go.

cut or changed his mind, doesn't really matter .

Good on him.

The Hayne over hype by the Aussie media, particularly in the Northern states, was unjustified.
He was pretty crap, and never really looked up to NFL standard.
So saw the writing on the wall and 'retired' .
The whole situation reminds my of Izzy Falau at GWS.

He was overhyped by the yanks as well.

I think his jersey was amongst the top 50 sold all year.

FYI, there are 32 teams each having 53 players on the roster plus more who get elevated from the practice squad (on which Hayne ended up on) so that is in excess of 2000 players. That's top 2.5% sales wise. Some of that would've been because Aussies were buying his jersey, but not THAT much.

Possibly the best all time Wide receiver to ever play the game, fellow 49'er Jerry Rice was also pumping up Haynes tyres. The aussie media just followed the hype from the US media. Which they are prone to do. How is Tim Tebow going? RG3? Johnny "Mr Football" Manziell? You might need to look them up as they were the 'next best thing' which have all gone to the scrap heap in the past 5 years or so. That's why i trust my own judgement and don't get sucked into the hype that the media creates as they have a knack of getting it wrong.

Chip Kelly apparently has a different view to Kruddler - but then, so do most folk  ;)

Chip is simply trying to save face saying the 49ers didn't push Hayne out the door, he was much loved by the fans and if they find out otherwise ll hell will break loose.

Chip is simply trying to save face saying the 49ers didn't push Hayne out the door, he was much loved by the fans and if they find out otherwise ll hell will break loose.

Good try Kruddler but Chip has well and truly shot your version down in flames.  I could be wrong but I suspect that he knows just a tad more about the NFL than you do so I'll happily accept what he has to say on the matter :)

Once Heyne fullfills his dream to go to Olympics,  he is going to try out with carlton to fulfill his dream to play AFL> 

Once Heyne fullfills his dream to go to Olympics,  he is going to try out with carlton to fulfill his dream to play AFL>

We've got enough half back flankers ;D

Hope he fulfils his dream to piss off out of sight and leave the media over hyping for when Essendon loses games and still gets a standing ovation from their deluded fans lol

Good try Kruddler but Chip has well and truly shot your version down in flames.  I could be wrong but I suspect that he knows just a tad more about the NFL than you do so I'll happily accept what he has to say on the matter :)

Knows more than Kruds?

Blasphemy!!

Hayne has missed selection in the first Fiji squad but it's possible that he could be added later.

If he misses out it will be a lot of egg on his face!

I would have thought that he would have to be guaranteed selection to justify giving up his NFL contract.

Hayne has missed selection in the first Fiji squad but it's possible that he could be added later.

If he misses out it will be a lot of egg on his face!

I would have thought that he would have to be guaranteed selection to justify giving up his NFL contract.

Does sound odd.

Hayne has missed selection in the first Fiji squad but it's possible that he could be added later.

If he misses out it will be a lot of egg on his face!

I would have thought that he would have to be guaranteed selection to justify giving up his NFL contract.

Maybe he didn't 'give up' his NFL contract. ;)

Perhaps Chip was telling porky's. Wouldn't be the first time a senior coach has told a little white lie.

Sometimes the simplest explanation is the right one. Hayne was told he was not required....or at least would be nothing more than a backup to a backup at best.

Lets put it this way, if Hayne doesn't get on the fiji squad there is absolutely nothing stopping him from going back to the NFL and trying again. NFL teams dont have set lists like we do here and teams can add players throughout the season.

Hell, Rio olympics is run in August, the NFL regular season doesn't start until September, he can do both! Betya he won't though.

My bet is that Jarrad will back in the NRL next year.


hasn't made it in the Yank game, and the Olympics will be history even if he gets a gig. Good luck to him I reckon.

Maybe he didn't 'give up' his NFL contract. ;)

Perhaps Chip was telling porky's. Wouldn't be the first time a senior coach has told a little white lie.

Sometimes the simplest explanation is the right one. Hayne was told he was not required....or at least would be nothing more than a backup to a backup at best.

Lets put it this way, if Hayne doesn't get on the fiji squad there is absolutely nothing stopping him from going back to the NFL and trying again. NFL teams dont have set lists like we do here and teams can add players throughout the season.

Hell, Rio olympics is run in August, the NFL regular season doesn't start until September, he can do both! Betya he won't though.

That's not the simplest explanation Kruddler, it's a conspiracy theory  :)

Hayne is still tied to the 49ers.  If he was to go back it would have to be to the 49ers unless they released him.

That's not the simplest explanation Kruddler, it's a conspiracy theory  :)

Hayne is still tied to the 49ers.  If he was to go back it would have to be to the 49ers unless they released him.

You only retire at such an age in such a sport when no one actually wants you.

My ex work mate at kmart was offered to be fired or quit.

To this day he will tell everyone he quit.

We all know he was fired.

It might be conspiracy theory,  but chip le grande showed us his unbiased best going into bat for the bumbers drug program and most of these media people have no credibility left on the back of it.

You only retire at such an age in such a sport when no one actually wants you.

My ex work mate at kmart was offered to be fired or quit.

To this day he will tell everyone he quit.

We all know he was fired.

It might be conspiracy theory,  but chip le grande showed us his unbiased best going into bat for the bumbers drug program and most of these media people have no credibility left on the back of it.

 :o

What's Chip Le Grande got to do with the price of fish?

Chip Kelly is the 49ers coach and, as I said previously, I reckon he knows a tad more about NFL than most armchair experts.

I guess we will see DJC.

Im not overly fussed either way.

The funniest part is the amount of pisstaking that is happening now.  Did you hear that apparently Jarryd Hayne will be running for prime minister.

I guess we will see DJC.

Im not overly fussed either way.

The funniest part is the amount of pisstaking that is happening now.  Did you hear that apparently Jarryd Hayne will be running for prime minister.

I wouldn't put it past him Thry.  He has more self-belief than a room full of politicians  :)

I thought he could give it a fair crack.
He went a good way in a short period and was still learning.

At the end of the day though it doesn't matter what anyone thinks.....the fact that Jarryd Hayne turned his back on an NFL career (one he seemed so committed to) means that 'he' didn't think he could make it.

I think this is fast becoming a matter of...

WHO CARES! ::)

Hayne has missed selection in the first Fiji squad but it's possible that he could be added later.

If he misses out it will be a lot of egg on his face!

I would have thought that he would have to be guaranteed selection to justify giving up his NFL contract.

Well his Olympic dream is over.

Well his Olympic dream is over.

He has done a Trump, he wanted a way out and found it!

Part of the reason he went for the fiji squad was to save face for his somewhat dramatic and sudden NFL exit.

Oops.

Back to australia to give rugby another crack i suspect.

Part of the reason he went for the fiji squad was to save face for his somewhat dramatic and sudden NFL exit.

Oops.

Back to australia to give rugby another crack i suspect.

Rumours on TV today have him going back to the Eels - not that I give a stuff.

Back to the NRL where he should have stayed.

With all the relatively recent exposure (pardon the pun) of Hayne, i went back and had a read of this thread.

A lot of egg on peoples faces. A lot of negativity directed at me, unjustly IMHO.


In any event, what a fall from grace.

The AFL should bring a system like this in for rookies. Let clubs shuffle them around to cover early season long term injuries, etc., etc. Perhaps with a 1/4 to 1/3 season cut-off.

It would stop clubs having ruined seasons due to early injuries, and make the smaller lists far more manageable.

 I can't believe I predicted the mid-season draft, I must be a genius of Kruddler level!

I can't believe I predicted the mid-season draft, I must be a genius of Kruddler level!

You know the funniest thing about that.....i've said many a time that they should do similar in the AFL and you have been one to complain about it. Typical going the man not the ball.

You know the funniest thing about that.....i've said many a time that they should do similar in the AFL and you have been one to complain about it. Typical going the man not the ball.

Aaaawwwh shucks, you mean I'm as smart as you, I'm blushing!