The New York Jets have made roster adjustments ahead of training camp. On Monday, June 24, the team announced via X (formerly Twitter) that they have released defensive back Tae Hayes.
The decision came just a day after Hayes was arrested in Alabama for possession of marijuana, as reported by Rich Cimini of ESPN. The Jets’ official press release did not provide a reason for Hayes’ release or any additional comments.
“On Sunday, a team spokesman said the club was aware of the situation but declined further comment because it was a pending legal matter,” Cimini reported.
Hayes’ Troubles and Release
Cimini explained, citing the Trinity (Alabama) Police Department, that Hayes’ possession charge is considered a second-degree misdemeanor. Hayes was booked into the Morgan County Jail and released on a $300 bond just after 5 a.m. local time, according to Ryan Gaydos of Fox News. In Alabama, marijuana is permitted for medical purposes but remains illegal for other uses.
Hayes, 26, was preparing for his sixth professional season before his release. Cimini noted that Hayes was considered a long shot to make the team this season. Hayes joined the Jets’ practice squad in October last season.
Injury issues to the Jets’ top cornerbacks led to Hayes being elevated from the practice squad for the Week 6 matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles, where he played a backup role in the team’s 20-14 upset victory. This marked the Jets’ first-ever win against the Eagles, who were previously 12-0 against them. Hayes spent the remainder of the season on the practice squad and signed a one-year deal with the Jets in the offseason.
Before joining the Jets, Hayes had stints with eight different NFL organizations, including two separate periods with the Carolina Panthers from 2019 to 2023. Despite appearing in 14 career NFL games, Hayes has not made a start.
Roster Predictions Without Hayes
Jets analyst Rivka Boord of Jets X-Factor posted a 53-man roster prediction on June 13, which did not include Hayes even before his legal troubles. Boord explained that only five cornerbacks were expected to make the final roster: Sauce Gardner, DJ Reed, Michael Carter II, Brandin Echols, and Qwan’tez Stiggers. She highlighted the team’s preference for Stiggers despite his lack of college experience and Jarrick Bernard-Converse’s move to safety, which didn’t secure his position on the team.
In summary, Hayes’ legal issues and performance status have significantly impacted his chances with the Jets, leading to his release as the team moves forward with its roster plans.
