On the day Jarryd Hayne was expected to announce an NFL contract, National Rugby League side Parramatta Eels CEO Scott Seward "acknowledged the club has discussed" holding a preseason game in the U.S. to capitalize on the former fullback's profile, according to Michael Chammas of the SYDNEY MORNING HERALD. Hayne "will hold a news conference in Sydney on Tuesday afternoon to announce a futures contract with an NFL club, believed to be the Detroit Lions, after receiving interest from three clubs." The Eels are set to capitalize on Hayne's U.S. foray, "mapping out a plan to cash in on the former rugby league superstar's switch to American football." Part of that plan, which includes a range of commercial opportunities, "is a vision to take a game" to the U.S. Seward agreed the club had "spoken about the prospect." Seward said, "It is certainly something we've had a look at for a pre-season game or some sort of exhibition match. It's not on our agenda for the next 12 months but it is something we've spoken about and had discussions over for the future. Jarryd being over there will give us that additional exposure. ... With Jarryd earning a contract, it's certainly value to both the club and the game to see our brand being seen by millions of eyeballs in the U.S." (SMH, 3/2).
