San Francisco 49ers

Jim Tomsula is impressed by rugby star Jarryd Hayne

Published May. 18, 2015 2:56 p.m. ET

foxsports

When the San Francisco 49ers signed Australian rugby star Jarryd Hayne a couple of months ago, they were not exactly sure what they were getting. They knew Hayne was one of the premiere rugby players in the world, but did not know if that success would translate over to the NFL.

The 49ers just wrapped up their three-day rookie minicamp over the weekend and head coach Jim Tomsula was very impressed with what he saw out of Hayne.

“Am I thrilled that he’s here? Absolutely,” coach Jim Tomsula told reporters at the rookie minicamp. “He’s a neat dude. All that stuff’s great. He’s running around and learning his stuff. He’s dedicated and committed. He’s a pro. He’s been a pro for a long time.”

Hayne was working primarily as a running back during the minicamp, but had time to field some punts as well.

“Did you see him catching those punts?” Tomsula said. “It's a little easier to catch a football than a rugby ball. The wind catches a rugby ball, that thing's zig-zagging all over the place."

Catching punts will be crucial to Hayne's success in the NFL, as special teams is likely his best chance to make the 49ers roster.

(h/t Sac Bee)