Rugby and football are like long lost cousins. Their reunion is causing ripples.
The 49ers recently signed flamboyant National Rugby League star Jarryd Hayne, whom quarterback Colin Kaepernick called "a phenomenal athlete." Will he be a NFL novelty or San Francisco's secret weapon?
Heading the other way is former Arizona State tight end Chris Coyle, who will leave for Canberra, Australia on May 6 to live and train with the Brumbies, a highly successful rugby franchise located 90 miles south of Sydney.
"I'm going to be as ready as I possibly can," said Coyle, who will compete in Saturday's Rugby Bowl at Scottsdale Stadium.