Ex-NRL star Jarryd Hayne signs with San Francisco 49ers, and he can’t stop smiling

Former Parramatta, New South Wales and test rugby league star Jarryd Hayne has signed a futures contract with the San Francisco 49ers in the NFL.

It's the first step on Hayne's quest to fulfill his dream of playing in gridiron's top competition.

Hayne gave first credit to God, before thanking his former club the Parramatta Eels, his old teammates and fans for their support during his big move.

"I know it was as hard as them as it was for me," he said.

He also expressed his appreciation towards the Seattle Seahawks and Detroit Lions for showing interest in him - before donning a 49ers hat and announcing his new allegiance.

He said the turning point for choosing the 49ers over the Lions had been a meeting with the new head coach, Jim Tomsula.

Tomsula has past experience working with rugby players in European gridiron and Hayne said he "knew the transition".

"I'm just ready to get over there and step the training up," he said.

"(I'm) excited, nervous, everything you'd expect for such a big move."

Hayne conceded it would be a big physical challenge, with this rookie contract just the first step on a long journey.

"Mentally, I'm ready for anything," he said.

The contract is a guarantee of a $100,000 payment, which Hayne said would give him 15 to 20 guaranteed weeks training with the 49ers.

He acknowledged his position as the highest-profile NRL footballer to make the move to the NFL, saying eyes would be on him in both the US and Australia.

"How far I go will determine the next phase of scouting (in Australia)," he said.

Hayne tweeted word of the impending announcement as early as this morning saying, "Today a dream becomes a reality. With God anything is possible."

Futures contracts usually aren't that lucrative (players are often paid minimum wage), but do provide players with a foot in the door and can lead to bigger and better things.

New York Giants defensive tackle Cullen Jenkins was one such player to come through the futures contract system; he has gone on to become a multi-millionaire and a Superbowl champion with the Green Bay Packers.