The San Francisco 49ers have continued to show that they do not yet have confidence in running back Jarryd Hayne.
The 49ers have been extremely banged up at the running back position all season. Carlos Hyde and Reggie Bush are out for the season, while Mike Davis is recovering from a broken hand. Now Shaun Draughn is day-to-day with a knee injury, so the team is looking to add options. They already have Kendall Gaskins getting some carries, and they waived Travaris Cadet on Tuesday.
Instead of signing Jarryd Hayne off the practice squad, the Niners signed DuJuan Harris off the Baltimore Ravens’ practice squad.
Hayne was a big story in the preseason thanks to his stellar special teams returns and playmaking ability. His pursuit as a rugby star from Australia trying to make it in the NFL captivated fans, and it was a big deal when he made the team’s roster. But Hayne only played in six games, rushing for 25 yards on eight carries and catching one pass for seven yards. He fumbled three times and lost one, leading the Niners to replace him on punt returns.
After clearing waivers, Hayne was signed back to the practice squad in early November. With San Francisco opting to sign Harris from the Ravens instead of promoting Hayne, it indicates they are not confident in his abilities yet. A transition from rugby to the NFL is not an easy one, and we’re seeing just how difficult it can be for even a stellar athlete.
