49ers re-sign running back to fill roster spot vacated by Jarryd Hayne

THERE’S one man perhaps more thrilled than any other with Jarryd Hayne’s decision to leave the NFL for Rugby Sevens.

The 49ers have officially moved on from Jarryd Hayne.

THERE’S one man perhaps more thrilled than any other with Jarryd Hayne’s decision to leave the NFL for Rugby Sevens — Kendall Gaskins.

Gaskins, a 25-year-old running back, was re-signed by the 49ers on Tuesday to fill the roster position vacated by the Rio Olympics hopeful.

Gaskins has spent the past two seasons in San Francisco but was cut when the 49ers announced their 90-man squad in May. But he was re-signed on a two-year deal, continuing his fringe career which has been given one more shot because of the departing Aussie.

Gaskins appeared in nine games last season but only managed 38 yards on 16 rushing attempts. He will fight for a spot on the 53-man roster with Carlos Hyde, Shaun Draughn, DuJuan Harris, Mike Davis and rookie Kelvin Taylor.

Kendll Gaskins carries the ball against the Bengals last season.

Hayne, who is continuing preparations for the Olympics in August, recently spoke to the Australian media about his decision to retire from the NFL.

He was quoted as saying he would have struggled to learn new coach Chip Kelly’s playbook, but moved to clarify those comments in a post on Twitter.

“The question was, ‘have you thought about rejoining the 49ers after Rio?’ To which I replied, ‘I think it would be extremely difficult considering we weren’t even half way through Chip’s playbook when I left and I am aware of how complicated it is. I would struggle to catch up in a week, which is how long I would have if I was to return’.

“I thoroughly enjoyed Chip’s playbook, and by no means felt lost in it. I apologise for the misunderstanding.”

@NinersNation pic.twitter.com/n21kWsxb3N

— jarryd hayne (@JarrydHayne) June 18, 2016

Hayne was in a reflective mood over the weekend, posting a photograph of his days with San Francisco and firing back at Twitter trolls who suggested he knew he was going to be cut.

Proverbs 3:6 In all your ways submit to him, and he will make you paths straight. pic.twitter.com/TilkI38SPF

— jarryd hayne (@JarrydHayne) June 19, 2016

If I listen to the opinions of others we wouldn't be talking about the Nfl. Go figure. https://t.co/RJszoLdojK

— jarryd hayne (@JarrydHayne) June 19, 2016

Speculation continues about which code — and club — will secure Hayne’s signature after the Olympics.

The Daily Telegraph reported wantaway Parramatta player Semi Radradra was told he will get to play alongside Hayne with the Eels if he recommits to the club.

Hayne is also expected to consider offers from French or Japanese rugby.

Originally published as 49ers re-sign running back to fill roster spot vacated by Jarryd Hayne