While there is little surprise that Jarryd Hayne would make the San Francisco 49ers roster, the remote possibility of him being cut today had much of Australia on the edges of their seats ... and very early in the morning for them.
Aussie fans have adopted the 49ers as their team because of the former NRL superstar who left for the United States to chase his dream of playing in the NFL.
Hayne himself made the announcement official on Twitter.
IT ALWAYS WORKS OUT! I thank GOD for WHAT HE has done and going to do on this incredible journey!! I'm on the 53 MAN ROSTER FOR THE #49ers.
— jarryd hayne (@jarrydhayne_1) September 5, 2015
The 49ers roster final roster cuts were submitted to the league today and Hayne was not one of the players on the list. Of course, even the final 53 are not assured a place on the team when the 49ers play their first game against the Minnesota Vikings on September 14. However, Hayne, who has shown impressive raw skill as a return man on special teams and even some explosive play at running back, is likely to remain no matter what.
Hayne averaged an impressive 7 yards-per-run on 25 carries during preseason. He was equally impressive returning the ball on special teams.
Hayne is officially a player in the NFL and of the San Francisco 49ers. Here's to a great season mate.
Other players that announced that they had made the team were DeAndrew White, Nick Bellore, and Mike Purcell.
@49erswebzone They do know half of Australia is waiting to hear about @jarrydhayne_1 don't they?!!! We're not used to this!! Ha!
— Ben Logan (@Benjameslogan) September 5, 2015
@49erswebzone @Benjameslogan @jarrydhayne_1 but its early, liKe 5.35am, tired and anxious Aussies!
— JK (@jayAkay74) September 5, 2015
@49erswebzone @jarrydhayne_1 ha! Not at all! We've adopted the 49ers and what our boy in the team!
— Ben Logan (@Benjameslogan) September 5, 2015
As the clock ticked down, even Jarryd Hayne was on the edge of his seat. Of course, by this point, the fact that he had not heard anything about his status was a good indication that he had made the team.
I'll know my future in 13 minute. First time I'm a little nerves
— jarryd hayne (@jarrydhayne_1) September 5, 2015