Eugene ‘Geno’ Hayes LB 6'1 226 Florida St. Jr. 4.64

Hayes was one of two true freshman to see action in every game in 2005, finishing the season with 17 tackles. He had a very good sophomore campaign, totaling 59 tackles, 12 for loss, three sacks, and a pick despite missing three games because of a knee injury. As a junior, he was extremely active, finishing the year with 80 tackles, 17.5 for loss, five sacks and an interception.

Geno Hayes is a very good weak side linebacker prospect. He seems to just have a knack at getting into the backfield to disrupt action and make plays. He is a solid athlete that shows the quickness to get around the block, and has the speed to close on the ball carrier. Hayes is very aggressive moving forward and attacking the action.

Hayes lacks strength and bulk. His impact in the league will be slowed until he shows he can get stronger. He does not hold up well at the point of attack, and can simply be removed from the action when a lineman gets his hands on him. There also was an off the field incident at a nightclub as a junior that will be looked into.

Hayes has a lot of upside, but may be more of a project. He is undersized and will not be able to do much on defense at his current size. He will need time to put more weight on and make his game more complete. He should be able to make an impact on special teams, but he probably should have returned to school for his senior year. If he works hard enough and his team is patient enough, he has the talent to be a fine weakside linebacker in a couple years.