Detroit Lions

Detroit Lions to give Jarryd Hayne NFL trial, according to reports

  • Five other NFL teams reportedly interested
  • Hayne says he has had no formal approach
Jarryd Hayne
Jarryd Hayne has said he would be most suited to play as a punt or kick returner. Photograph: Robb Cox/AAP Image

Australian Associated Press

The Detroit Lions have reportedly emerged as one of six NFL teams interested in Jarryd Hayne, after the player quit the NRL to attempt a career in American football.

The interest from the Lions, according to a News Limited report, comes after a recommendation from Detroit running back Reggie Bush. On the strength of Bush’s recommendation the former Parramatta Eels player is believed to have been offered a trial with Detroit, although Hayne insists he has not had any formal contact from any teams.

Hayne acknowledged the size of the task ahead of him when he boarded a flight for the US on Sunday.

“We’ll take it week by week and see where I’m at and whether I’m in that condition to progress for a trial or not,” he said. “If we go down that avenue, then so be it.

“But the overall plan is for 12 months and to do as much training as I can and to prepare and to learn all the routes, learn all the schemes ... I just want to get the basics down pat.

“I know a bit but obviously it’s a lot more strategic and a lot more in-depth, the NFL. It’s like anything, you can prepare as much as you can. But when you’re in the heat of the battle, it’s a totally different thing.

“I know that. I’ve been in places where I haven’t felt comfortable. I’ve been to hell and back in Origin. I’ve been to the pinnacle in rugby league and I look forward to trying my best in the NFL.”

Bush and Hayne met during the American’s promotional trip to Australia in June and he watched the NSW full-back help clinch the State of Origin series for the Blues. During the visit, Bush claimed Hayne could make the jump to the NFL.

“He actually looks like an NFL running back,” Bush said. “Looks like he could come play with us tomorrow. He’s fast, strong and ... wow. Look at that hit. That’s an NFL football hit. I like this guy.”

The names of the other five clubs reportedly interested in Hayne remain unconfirmed. Hayne shocked the rugby league world when he announced during the week he was quitting the game and chasing his dream of playing in the NFL.

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