Jarryd Hayne Warned Of Detroit Lions' Penchant For Experimenting With Athletes From Other Sports

Jarryd Hayne should be wary of the Detroit Lions' penchant for experimenting with players outside of American football only to dump them later, according to a Fox Sports report. USA rugby ace Carlin Isles, who was cut in 2013, is the latest example of how the Lions had kept the hopes of athletes from other sports in making the NFL.There was reportedly also a German and a Norwegian athlete spotted on Youtube who were asked to try out as wide receiver and as kicker, respectively, only to be cut later.

Isles, a flyer for the Rugby Sevens, was signed to a Lions futures contract in December 2013 after being noticed for his blinding speed. He was impressive in practice and was earmarked as a receiver. He had a 10.24 sec 100m and recorded 4.22 sec over a 40-dash. He even declared that he can do 4.1 seconds all day.
But Isles was cut by the Lions cut a couple of months later. His agent claimed that the decision was due to his client's desire to play elite rugby and also chase a Sevens spot at the 2016 Olympics.

However, according to reports from the US, it had become apparent to the Lions that Isles' raw talent is not enough to convert him into a bona fide NFL player.
Hayne, 26, is in the same situation where Isles was--attempting at an advanced age to a switch to a completely different sport.

The former NRL star has expressed confidence in his making it to the NFL. Hayne said he believes he has the talent, speed and ability to learn quickly to make it to the NFL, although he admits it may take at least 12 months.

He was not on the list of those up for futures contracts by San Francisco 49ers and San Diego Chargers, two of the NFL teams who had been eyeing him. But Hayne appears to be close to being offered a contract by the Detroit Lions or Seattle Seahawks, with the Lions reportedly favored by Haynes. The Lions signed former Boston College wide receiver Ifeanyi Momah to a reserve/futures deal before the year ended and are expected to announce more in the coming days.

To contact the author of this article, email c.tordesillas@IBTimes.com.au