Fourth Aussie to punt in NFL

Australian Chris Bryan has signed with NFL franchise the New York Jets.

Bryan’s agent, Nathan Chapman, revealed that the 29-year-old had signed with the Jets via Twitter on Saturday.

Chapman, who formerly played AFL football for Brisbane and Hawthorn, runs Prokick Australia, an academy which trains aspiring punters hoping to make the NFL.

“Congrats to Prokick Australia’s Chris Bryan, agreeing to terms with the NY Jets,” Chapman tweeted.

“Thanks again to DEC Management for working through the terms.”

Bryan’s deal is reported to be over three years, with his signing representing one of many in a free agency period after the NFL lockout finally ended.

Bryan played for the Green Bay Packers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers last season and is the fourth former AFL footballer to play NFL, joining Darren Bennett (San Diego Chargers), Ben Graham (Arizona Cardinals) and Sav Rocca (Washington Redskins).

He played 46 games in the AFL, representing Collingwood in 30 matches and Carlton 16 times before he was delisted in 2009.

In other lockout news, the New York Giants have secured the signature of former New York Jets punter Steve Weatherford.

The 28-year-old spent the past two years with the Jets and landed half of his punts (42 of 84) inside the 20.

The Jacksonville Jaguars are also reported to be close to signing former New York Jets cornerback Drew Coleman, who is likely to sign a three-year deal for up to US$7.4 million.