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Jarryd Hayne Still Won’t Make 49ers Roster…

Aug 16, 2015 at 1:03 PM

Did Jarryd Hayne's performance on Saturday secure him a roster spot as a running back? The short answer: no. Despite tearing off a 53-yard run and holding his own in pass protection, Hayne's contributions as a running back won't keep him on the 53-man roster—not with Carlos Hyde, Reggie Bush, Kendal Hunter, and fourth-round pick Mike Davis in front of him.

But his contributions as a returner might.

Yes, it's preseason. Yes, it's that time when backups strut their stuff and coaches resort to vanilla play calls. So it's really too early to make predictions, right? But common-sense be damned, let's talk predictions.

In his first NFL game, Hayne displayed a combination of swagger, confidence, and big-play ability that the Niners have been lacking from their return specialists since the departure of speedster Ted Ginn Jr. Hayne's stats may not be eye popping—two punt returns of 11 and 13 yards, along with a 33 yard kick return—but for those who tuned into Saturday's game, you saw a certain kind of poise and confidence that speaks to Hayne's second nature in fielding the ball.

For starters, calling a fair catch apparently isn't in Hayne's blood, even with defenders striding down field unobstructed, less than five yards away from a jarring collision. The most impressive aspect of Hayne's game on Saturday was how he responded to the opposition—calmly securing the football, dodging his would be tackler with a flash of subtle elusiveness, and then muscling his way forward with a combination of burst, balance and physicality.

What we learned is that Hayne's natural athleticism and toughness does translate to the NFL (especially those lovely stiff arms). And in a year where the 49ers have so many unknowns, locking down a player who can help in the game of field position is certainly a valuable commodity. If Hayne can capitalize on this momentum as returner and continue to prove his value elsewhere, he might just be able to elbow his way onto the 49ers final roster.

What remains to be seen is if other 49ers players, such as second-year receiver Bruce Ellington or the seasoned Reggie Bush, can match or outperform Hayne on special teams. Even with a solid debut, Hayne faces an uphill battle.

So what are your two-cents? Does Hayne make the final cut? Do the 49ers carry five running backs this year? Post your predictions below.

The opinions within this article are those of the writer and, while just as important, are not necessarily those of the site as a whole.

48 Comments

  • Maka1969
    Hey Click Bait, put down the crack pipe! This guy has the straight line speed and power of Bo Jackson or Earl Campbell. 3rrd and 1, 4th and 1, guess who gets the ball? Better yet, the play-action fake will take on a whole new significance in SF.
    Aug 24, 2015 at 3:41 PM
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  • HKD
    Some US fans, are struggling with this realitve new- commer to "American Football" and rightly so. J.Hayne more than anyone else knows this. He wants to back himself so regardless of what we all think, it all comes down to walking the walk, talking the talk and playing the game. When he makes good on his ability, it won't come as any surprise to us here down under. When you eventually see you to will be converted. LxR
    Aug 24, 2015 at 3:08 PM
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  • Phil
    someone on the cowboys fan blog asked if they should make a play for Jarryd. Another bloke replied "If SF trades Hayne, the fan base will march on 49er HQ with pitchforks, tar and ropes. He might be the only thing worthwhile this year."
    Aug 24, 2015 at 2:11 PM
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  • ricky riola
    with more experience he runs like ricky waters & little roger crage. if hayne is let go the niners will regret it.
    Aug 24, 2015 at 1:28 PM
    1
  • Darrell G
    As you previously noted, the article is a bit mistitled. After that, your points are bang on. If he remains consistent on ST, I don't see how the 9ers let him hit the waiver wire.
    Aug 24, 2015 at 6:30 AM
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  • shep from Aus
    Big decision for the 49ers selection team I imagine. He would appear to have achieved a lot in 6 months, another 6 months may be incredible, but we live in the here and now. He knows his window to get in the NFL is short, so if SF say no, he would have to look at other offers, and after what we have seen, surley smaller teams would give him a chance ... so I guess the question SF may have to ask it self is , ' do we want him playing for us .. or against us ?'. Either way he is doing himself proud ... 9ers forever (lifetime Eels and 49ers fan in heaven :))
    Aug 24, 2015 at 3:38 AM
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  • Chuk in Oz
    You are all just getting a glimpse of the Hayne that we know - from what I have seen so far it will only be a short time before you see his first full-field touch down. I mean end to end. This human is a freak of epic proportions. Just wait and see. You heard it here first my US buddies.
    Aug 24, 2015 at 3:08 AM
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  • Joe Australia
    credit has to go to 49ers coaching staff and the playing group for the gamble you can't help but be happy for Jarryd what's funny is he's got another gear or two might sound crazy but watching play NFL.he looks like he's holding back. Can't wait to see him express him self.when you hear superstar rugby league player 2 x mvp you think wow that's in a team that he carried for years only his loyalty to parramatta held him back he could have gone to bigger NRL clubs where he would have had more success.cant wait for next week can't believe I've just heard NFL commentators blurting out Vegemite and shrimp on the barbie lines very funny go Jarryd go 49ers love that big defence .
    Aug 24, 2015 at 12:36 AM
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  • Phil
    LOL how good was that. To our American friends I hope you like what you saw today coz Haynesy is just warmin up. Remember this, second game ever playin American footy. Trust me, he will onlyget better
    Aug 23, 2015 at 11:09 PM
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  • Joe from Australia
    do the Cowboys matter or was that the 49ers getting pumped up for a big season who's that guy from Australia what's that you say he's only played 2 games in the NFL.well pickle me grandma . Great performance 49ers .
    Aug 23, 2015 at 8:34 PM
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  • Billb
    I sure hope you're not a betting man, because after tonight's first half performance, I don't see how he isn't our primary special teams ace. The first two punt returns have been as electrifying I've seen out a 49er player in a decade. The third one was a thing of beauty as well. I'd say you need to lighten up on the Aussie Hate Shades.
    Aug 23, 2015 at 5:35 PM
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  • Joe Australia
    again it's ronbo sports on you tube for fellow Aussies looking for real opinions and a cool intro to the 49ers
    Aug 23, 2015 at 4:14 PM
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  • Joe Australia
    good luck tonight 49ers . Just a quick one for joe Lambo flash in the pan my arse mate leave the coaching to the coaches be a fan get behind your team and the coaching staff. I agree he might not be an out and out rb just yet but the coaches didn't sign him up to peel oranges.for any one in Aus who want to know what real 49ers fans think check out ronbo on you tube.
    Aug 23, 2015 at 3:54 PM
    1
  • rab
    The guy has more all round talent than single skilled NFL players it seems. Give him a crack mate!
    Aug 23, 2015 at 7:17 AM
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  • Joe Lambo
    I absolutely agree! He will NOT make anyone's 53 man roster. His skills as a RB, inside or outside, are non-existent. It takes years of practice to develop the technique as a RB in American Football. By the time he gains this experience he will be in his mid-30's! His return skills are just a flash in the pan. Teams will know how to approach him and his hesitancy in calling a fair catch will be his doom. One good hit and it's lights out brah!
    Aug 22, 2015 at 10:13 AM
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  • Phil
    Looking forward to the day when he fields a kick at the back and runs the full length of the field without a hand laid on him. It will happen.
    Aug 21, 2015 at 2:55 AM
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  • Mick
    49ers would be crazy not to sign him from marketing alone. Sign Hayne 49ers get a couple of million Australian supporters. NFL should be encouraging 49ers for the growth of the game.
    Aug 20, 2015 at 11:02 PM
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  • Joe Australia
    Warning 49er fans the Hayne plane has landed good start but wait till he gets more game time NRL is physical fast hard hitting just like NFL Jarryd Hayne will shine and lift all around him I have no doubt this is just the beginning the kid doesn't quit strap in 49ers enjoy the ride
    Aug 20, 2015 at 8:53 AM
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  • Jered M
    He will beat out. Davis,and Bush IMO,Hyde,Hunter,Hayne,and then the rest.
    Aug 18, 2015 at 1:58 PM
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  • Darren
    I have not missed a Game Hayne has played in League & have followed NFL close since 87. I have no doubt NFL suits Hayne more than League so strap yourself in for the most excitement the 49's has seen in offense in decades. Let us hope it is for the 49's he plays for!
    Aug 18, 2015 at 6:31 AM
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  • Johnny O
    Yes...after 10 years of not having anyone who can return punts and kicks his guy looks like he can and without fear! That's what you need.
    Aug 17, 2015 at 11:23 AM
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  • nick
    Kellrazor That is my point exactly !
    Aug 17, 2015 at 10:34 AM
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  • Kellrazor
    Are you kidding? I take this guy over Bruce Miller in a heartbeat for a roster position, and why is Miller even still on this team? I guarantee you with the way he explodes through the line there is a roster spot for him immediately. Call him a fullback - what ever - just give him the rock.
    Aug 17, 2015 at 7:38 AM
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  • Nick
    Hyde is un proven, really he hasn't shown dominance by speling Gore last season, Hunter hasn't played in 2 yrs, and who is to say that Davis will be better than Hayne. The niners need all the help they can get on offense I think Hayne could help big time also his running style would be helpful as a fullback. Besides Miller who else has proven at fullback?
    Aug 17, 2015 at 7:18 AM
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  • Harry Elias
    If management is dumb enough to let Hayne go, especially for the peanut sized salary he's getting, then that would tell me that management needs to go. He was the biggest highlight the offense showed. He will only get better with time. This is a no brainer!!
    Aug 16, 2015 at 6:43 PM
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  • don
    One game, perhaps he caught a flyer but unless he starts fumbling or gets injured I don't see how you can cut him. Let's see what happens in game two..
    Aug 16, 2015 at 6:36 PM
    1
  • keith Robberding
    I predicted from the beginning that Haynes natural ability to have great vision, make tacklers miss, set up opponents to miss using his vision and years of experience make him uniquely qualified to contribute from the beginning. Right now he appears to be the best natural return guy the 49ers have. His running ability shows more than a little promise right now, aussie aussie aussie, oi oi oi
    Aug 16, 2015 at 6:25 PM
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  • Roxie's Kitchen
    Yes, they should find a way to keep him.
    Aug 16, 2015 at 5:35 PM
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  • John boyke
    If he can hold his own and do what needs to be done on special teams then yes I think he should make the 53 man roster! We have loss a lot of key players this off season to retirement and legal troubles! I personally think we should have done more to try and keep those that retired early from the NINERS but the physical and mental mind set was not our decision it was the players! This yr was in my mind was the NFL History Maker year but not everyone gets there wish!
    Aug 16, 2015 at 4:54 PM
    0
  • Lucky Phil
    My hope is Jed York gets cut. From the left ear to the right
    Aug 16, 2015 at 4:50 PM
    0

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