Former NFL linebacker Geno Hayes is under hospice care for liver complications and “fighting for his life,” his high school football coach told USA TODAY.
Hayes, 33, played for the Buccaneers, Bears and Jaguars during a seven-year NFL career that ended after the 2014 season. He was a sixth-round draft pick out of Florida State and replaced Hall of Famer Derrick Brooks as the Buccaneers’ starting weakside linebacker in 2009, when he had the best season of his career.
“Geno’s in need of prayers. He’s fighting for his life,” high school coach Frankie Carroll said after visiting Hayes at his mother’s home in Valdosta, Ga. last Sunday. “It’s tough. Geno’s a fun-loving guy.”
Hayes finished his NFL career with 401 tackles, 10 sacks, six forced fumbles, six interceptions and two defensive touchdowns. In other words, he had a nose for the football.
Geno Hayes playing for the Jaguars in 2013 Getty Images“And he’d get people on the ground when he got there,” former Florida State defensive coordinator Mickey Andrew told the website. “He had a motor, a knack for locating the ball.”
