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Jarryd Hayne set for touchdown: coach

Jarryd Hayne's special teams coach says the Australian has the potential to soon be the NFL's top punt returner.

San Francisco 49ers running back Jarryd Hayne (38)
It's just a matter of time before Jarryd Hayne catches a punt and returns it for a touchdown. (AAP)

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Source: AAP


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It's just a matter of time before Jarryd Hayne catches a punt and returns it for a touchdown.

That's the view of San Francisco 49ers' special teams co-ordinator Thomas McGaughey, who has guided the former Parramatta Eels player's transition from rugby league to an NFL punt returner.

"Yeah," McGaughey replied to the touchdown question at a press conference on Wednesday.

With the bullish prediction, however, came some restraint, with the coach adding that Hayne has only played five regular season NFL games in his life.

"I think sometimes we lose track of that," McGaughey said.

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Hayne made the most of his opportunities in the 49ers' loss to the New York Giants on the weekend, catching a difficult punt from fellow Australian Brad Wing before a bullocking 16-yard return.

As a running back, Hayne came within four yards of touchdown.

McGaughey said a good return average for a punt returner is anything over 12 yards, with Hayne so far posting 10.3 yards.

The coach said Hayne has the potential to be the NFL's top returner.

"It's up to Jarryd," McGaughey said.

"How much time is he willing to put in as far as studying the game and just the maturation process?

"Who knows? This year or next year he might be leading the league in punt returns.

"He has that kind of ability.

"He's a big straight ahead strong runner and he does a good job in making people miss in space."

The 49ers have a good chance of ending their four-game losing streak on Sunday when they play at home against the Baltimore Ravens.

The 49ers and Ravens both have one win, four loss records.


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