Rugby POY Quits Rugby to Play in the NFL

[WUnderhill]

http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/11703333/aussie-star-jarryd-hayne-ditches-rugby-chase-nfl-dream

 

Jarryd Hayne, who is widely considered the best rugby player in the world, announced today that he would be quitting rugby in order to pursue a career in the NFL.

 

"It's always been a dream of mine to play in the NFL, and at my age, this is my one and only chance at having a crack at playing there," Hayne wrote.

 

"I'm so passionate about the challenge that lies ahead for me, not only as an athlete but more so as a person," Hayne said. "It's the hardest decision I have ever had to make in my life. I'm leaving my teammates, friends, and most importantly my family; but for me to grow as an athlete and a person I feel this is the right step to take."

 

At 6 ft. 2 in. and 220 lbs. Hayne would seem to project as either a linebacker or a running back, but at 26 years old he may not have enough time to learn the game like he would need. His best chance is at finding a role on special teams, where he could potentially step in right away as a punt returner or kick returner. His rugby background could make him doubly valuable as an emergency punter.

 

"I believe I have the speed, I'm a quick learner, I feel things out really quickly," he said. "I have no doubt it's going to be tough. Ultimately it's a 12-month plan, going over there and trying to make a train-on team. For me to do that I need to start preparing for that around January or February."

 

I'm not sure if he's immediately available and how that all works, but I wouldn't mind the Panthers taking a look at him for PR duties. Philly still scares me to death. I'm also sure he would immediately come in as a pretty sound tackler and could help in ST coverage once he learns the concepts, and could be worth trying to develop at LB or RB.

 

Highlights:

[JawnyBlaze]

Before watching the video I was like "nah, rugby players don't often have the cutting or shiftiness for RB."  I lived in Australia for a while and watched plenty of it.  This guy seems like an exception though.  Worth a shot.  We coincidentally have a PR position that needs an upgrade....

[mbarbour21]

I think it would be interesting to see. He is obviously pretty quick and strong, but all thise fake laterals wont work in the NFL. Although him and Cam in read option would be intriguing...

[PandaPancake]

Would he be signed as an UDFA?

[TN05]

Rugby league is a great sport to transition to football from, and this guy is bound to get some interest. He's basically laying his career out on the line here, and I hope he makes the most of it. Maybe this can get some Aussies more interested in football and vice versa.

[Mojo]

Wow.  His video impressed me.  He's quick as lighting and powerful.  I think he could be a good RB (with time, of course)

[Pejorative Miscreant]

As a Rugby fan... SIGN HIM!!!!!!

He can contribute in some form.

I like the optimism but I think he has a 10 - 20 % shot shot to end up on a practice squad. He's 26 years old and probably doesn't know how to put on the equipment. I would love to see it and wish him well. If it doesn't go his way he can alwYs go back to Rugby.

[caatfan]

I wonder how much he knows about "American football"? If he's never watched as a fan, he'll have a huge learning curve.

[PantherDynasty]

Holy poo. Once this guy learns the playbook of whatever team he winds up on, he's gonna be a superstar

[WUnderhill]

Moved why? Panthers need a PR.

[WUnderhill]

Still waiting on a mod's explanation for the move, since what is being discussed is how he could or couldn't help the Panthers.

[Brooklyn Bully]

I want him to go for it just for the entertainment alone. He's built like a block. I bet he could truck a fool.