NFL News: Jarryd Hayne to play for 49ers' preseason opener

San Francisco 49ers hopeful Jarryd Hayne will play his first actual NFL game on Aug. 15 after impressing team coaches and teammates during the Niners’ two-week training camp. Geep Chryst, 49ers offensive coordinator, confirmed that the team will field Hayne on Saturday, when San Francisco plays the Houston Texans in the team’s preseason opener at NRG stadium.

Chryst has confirmed Hayne will be used on “all facets” of the exhibition game after the Australian rugby star displayed his speed and natural skills of catching passes out of the backfield and field punts in the 49ers’ training sessions at Levi’s Stadium, reports CSN Bay Area. Chryst said fielding Hayne in an actual game will give the team more idea of what the rugby star can do in playing American football, but the offensive coordinator admitted it will be “exciting” to see the 49ers hopeful on the yard.

“We’re definitely going to use him on all facets of the game: Running, catching, fielding on special teams, whatever T-Mac (special teams coordinator Thomas McGaughey) wants to do," Chryst said. “He’s been running through contact pretty much his whole life, so I’m really excited to see him play in the Houston game as well.”

Hayne ended San Francisco’s goal-line drill with an awe-inspiring “rugby-esque” touchdown. After getting levelled by defensive end Tank Carradine in his first attempt, Hayne pulled off an impressive run from two yards, brushing a wave of tackle attempts before planting the upper half of his body for a touchdown.

Meanwhile, the 49ers’ experimented with Hayne in a surprising role during Tuesday’s practice session. According to Fox Sports, Hayne, who was originally classified as a running back and considered as a potential punt returner, was used in the coverage unit, which demonstrated his defensive rugby skillset.

The 27-year-old Hayne has been known in the rugby league for his attacking prowess, but Hayne’s toughness and durability are earning him praise from the US media, while his all-around ability to run, received, and defend could give him an edge against his rivals for the 49ers’ 53-man squad.

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