Former Parramatta Eels star Jarryd Hayne says he is enjoying his time at the San Francisco 49ers, but admitted he had a long way to go before making his NFL debut.
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The former Australian Test representative is hoping to make the cut on the 49ers 53-man roster when it gets announced on the eve of the 2015/16 season.
Hayne said the physical component of the NFL was not an issue, but admits knowing the team’s playbook inside out is the biggest challenge of all.
“Physically it’s not a concern,” Hayne is quoted as saying by the Sydney Morning Herald.
“It’s just the playbook and knowing where to be at the right time, whether to pass protect and running in gaps, or what not. Obviously the routes are a key factor as well. They are my main concerns.
“Physically, I feel fine. We got to train as a squad for two weeks leading up to being on the field with the coaches. I felt fine and comfortable. But when we’re out there and plays are getting called and studying, that’s going to be the biggest hurdle for me.”
Hayne refused to make a prediction on his chances of landing a spot on the 49ers final roster.
“We’re only three weeks in,” he said.
“I’m just taking it day by day and taking baby steps at the moment. It’s such a new thing so I’m just taking my time and making sure I’m getting what the coaches are teaching me right and worrying about that.”
Hayne made his NRL debut with the Eels in 2006 and went on to make 176 first-grade appearances.
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