San Francisco 49ers

Garoppolo's deal, which was first reported by NBC Sports Bay Area and subsequently by the league's official website, is the biggest in NFL history on an average-per-year basis at $27.5m per season.

The 26-year-old quarterback was acquired in October from the New England Patriots for a 2018 second-round pick.

He was in the final year of his rookie deal and set to become a free agent ahead of next season, but now San Francisco's hopes of making him the team's next franchise quarterback have become a reality.

The San Francisco 49ers quarterback started the protest last month after he sat during the national anthem for a preseason game, saying he would not "show pride in a flag for a country that oppresses black people and people of color."

Since then, other professional athletes have also chosen not to stand for the national anthem, sparking a national debate.

Kelly also doused speculation the 49ers were planning to cut Hayne, which led to the Australian making a face-saving exit.

The 49ers instead were bullish on Hayne, praising his ability to pick up Kelly's new offence and excited about using his powerful, 188cm body and skills.

"He's a really sharp learner," Kelly told reporters on Tuesday at the 49ers' Santa Clara facility.

"We were excited. He's a big body and has a skill set."