The San Francisco 49ers coach has rubbished reports that Australia's Jarryd Hayne has been guaranteed a place in his team for the upcoming NFL season.
Australian media reported this week that the former NRL star had told family and friends that he'd made the cut for the 53-man squad due to open the season against the Minnesota Vikings in two weeks.
Speaking to San Francisco's KNBR radio station, coach Jim Tomsula said the 53-man squad wasn't set and Hayne needed to prove his ability in specialist roles.
"I don't know what the rules are in the media in Australia, but you might want to fact check," Tomsula said.
"Playing in tight spaces and pass protections, he is improving, he is improving big time.
"I will say he's busting his tail in those other areas.
Tomsula wasn't surprised by Hayne's ability as a punt returner, a role he has excelled in during the pre-season, saying rugby players from both codes developed his running in the open field.
"Guys, we didn't teach Jarryd Hayne how to catch that ball. OK? He came here with that ability," Tomsula added.
Hayne has one more opportunity to prove himself in the 49ers final pre-season game against the San Diego Chargers at Levi's Stadium in San Francisco.
Meanwhile, Kiwi Paul Lasike has likened his journey to the NFL as an emotional rollercoaster as he tries to make the final cut for the Arizona Cardinals squad.
Lasike survived the roster being trimmed to 75 players on Tuesday (NZT), and told Radio Sport he didn't think he would make it.
"I will be completely honest with you actually, I thought I was going to get cut," the former Waikato youth rep said.
"I am trying to keep the faith high, but it can be hard.
"Some things you just can't control, you know. It's a freaking rollercoaster man, it's like crazy to think how far I've already come and that I've already been able to... make it down to the last wire."
The Arizona Cardinals' 53-man squad for the upcoming NFL season will be named next week.
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