Jarryd Hayne returns to San Francisco 49ers roster

Former rugby league player Jarryd Hayne is back on the active roster of the San Francisco 49ers.

Hayne has not played since week six, having been moved down to the 49ers practice squad, but the running back was recalled on Saturday and could feature in their clash with the Detroit Lions.

The Australia international, 27, said before Christmas he had improved as a player since his demotion, while revealing he had no plans of giving up his dream of succeeding in the NFL.

"To come this far in seven months, give me 12, 14 (and) it's going to be completely different. And I think anyone who's seen my growth will tell you how much I've changed and developed," Hayne said.

"And it's always funny, looking at old film, it's one of those awkward things ... 'What was I thinking? Or, 'What was I doing?' It's hilarious."

The 27-year-old's main use so far has been on special teams, but he could get the chance to add to his eight rushing carries, which have gone for 25 yards, on Sunday.

San Francisco only have short-yardage back Kendall Gaskins and the recently acquired DuJuan Harris on their running back roster with starter Shaun Draughn ruled out of the week 16 tilt with a knee injury.

The 49ers have placed guard Alex Boone on injured reserve with a knee injury to make room for Hayne, and Boone could have played his last game for the franchise as he is a free agent at the end of the season.

Watch week 16 from the NFL live on Sky Sports 2 on Sunday night, starting with the New England Patriots taking on the New York Jets from 5.30pm, and all the scoring action from the 49ers against the Lions will be part of Red Zone coverage on Sky Sports 5 HD from 6.00pm.