jarryd-hayne.jpg

Jarryd Hayne visited with the Lions last week and is reportedly back in town Monday to take a physical.

(AP Photo)

ALLEN PARK -- National Rugby League star, and aspiring NFL player, Jarryd Hayne is closing in on deal with the Detroit Lions, according to a Detroit Free Press report.

The Lions have been linked to Hayne since the 26 year old announced he was leaving rugby to pursue an NFL career in October. The team denied early reports of interest, but recently attended a workout held for multiple NFL franchises in San Diego.

On Monday, Caldwell confirmed the Lions hosted Hayne for a visit last week.

"He was traveling around the country to take a look at different locations in this league and that was one of those visits," Caldwell said.

According to the Free Press report, Hayne is back in Detroit on Monday to take a physical, indicating the 6-foot-2, 225-pounder is on the verge of a contract with the Lions.

When asked about the team's interest in signing Hayne, Caldwell played it coy.

"We take a look at a lot of different people all the time," Caldwell said. "It's a constant sort of exploration for us. We're always trying to look to find ways to improve and we're looking at every option that's out there available to us."

It is unlikely the Lions, a 10-4 club one win away from clinching a spot in the postseason, will add the inexperienced Hayne to the active roster. He would more likely to added to the team's 10-man practice squad.

Hayne's projected position is running back. Detroit's Reggie Bush, a veteran tailback, visited with Hayne during a trip to Australia this summer. Bush offered advice about the NFL, and after watching a highlight tape declared Hayne could excel if given an opportunity.

"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."

This wouldn't be the first time the Lions have gone outside the box in their search for talent under general manager Martin Mayhew. The team brought in YouTube sensation Harvard Rugland to compete for the placekicking job during training camp last season, despite no previous football experience. Detroit also signed American rugby standout Carlin Isles to the practice squad last season

-- Download the Detroit Lions MLive app for iPhone and Android

-- Follow Justin Rogers on Twitter

-- Like MLive's Detroit Lions Facebook page