Jarryd Hayne

The Detroit Lions reportedly met with rugby star Jarryd Hayne on Friday.

(AP Photo)

Two months ago, rumors circulated that the Detroit Lions were interested in Australian rugby star Jarryd Hayne, but coach Jim Caldwell denied the reports. According to the National Football Post, the Lions met with Hayne on Friday.

Hayne is an intriguing prospect to say the least. The 26 year old was a superstar in his sport before deciding to pursue his NFL dream. The 6-foot-2, 225-pounder has the physical makeup of a bruising running back, and after watching highlights last year, Lions veteran tailback Reggie Bush is confident Hayne could have an impact as a professional football player.

"I think he'd do pretty well actually," Bush said. "Because he's quick, he's elusive, he's powerful, he's fast, he has great vision and those are all the things you need to play running back in the NFL."

The Lions have shown a willingness to think outside the box when looking for talent. The team gave YouTube trick-shot sensation Havard Rugland a long look during training camp last year and briefly added American rugby standout Carlin Isles to the team's practice squad late last season.

Hayne has reportedly also met with the Seattle Seahawks and San Francisco 49ers. He has been training in California.

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