After only one season with the 49ers, Jarryd Hayne's NFL career is over.
The San Francisco running back/punt return has this morning announced his retirement from the game, effective immediately. Hayne will now pursue an Olympic gold medal with the Fiji Rugby Sevens team in Rio.
The move marks the third code for Hayne, but rugby league fans are likely reading between the lines here; An Olympic campaign will keep Hayne occupied until sometime in September, allowing him to sign with an NRL team shortly after and be ready for the 2017 season.
Who that team is will be the subject of rampant speculation for the next 6 months, but the Sydney Roosters and of course Hayne's beloved Eels will likely be the primary challengers for the dual Dally M Medallist.
Hayne released a statement thanking the 49ers, before signing off in what might be the cheesiest way; "Signing off, your mate, number 38."
I’d like to thank Jed and the entire York family for giving me the opportunity to fulfill my dream of playing in the National Football League. I also want to thank Trent and his staff, as well as Jim Tomsula, Tom Rathman and the other coaches who invested in me to make this dream a reality. I’d also like to thank Coach Kelly for the opportunity to come back this year. The support and understanding from the 49ers organization was unbelievable when I let them know about my decision to pursue another dream. The past 12 months with the San Francisco 49ers have been absolutely incredible. I could not have predicted how far I have come as an NFL player. To not only be able to play in a game but also say that I started a game in the NFL is something that I will remember for a lifetime.
The 49ers also released a statement:
“We would like to thank Jarryd for his contributions to the San Francisco 49ers organization and our community over the last year,” said 49ers general manager Trent Baalke. “Jarryd is a tremendous example of what can happen when you commit to a goal and do everything in your power to make it a reality. He earned the right to wear a 49ers uniform and compete alongside the best in the game. We fully support Jarryd’s decision to pursue another dream - representing the Fiji Rugby Sevens team in this summer’s Olympic games. We look forward to watching him in Rio and wish him continued success.”
