Hayes signed with the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent but was released before the start of the 2019 season.[2] He was later signed to the practice squad before being promoted to the active roster to replace injured wide receiver Marqise Lee.[3] He was waived on December 12, 2019.[4]
Miami Dolphins
On December 13, 2019, Hayes was claimed off waivers by the Miami Dolphins.[5]
On September 5, 2020, Hayes was waived by the Dolphins and signed to the practice squad two days later.[6][7] He was elevated to the active roster on September 24 and October 31 for the team's weeks 3 and 8 games against the Jaguars and Los Angeles Rams, and reverted to the practice squad after each game.[8][9] He was released on November 23, 2020.[10]
Minnesota Vikings
On December 2, 2020, Hayes signed with the practice squad of the Minnesota Vikings.[11] He was elevated to the active roster on January 2, 2021, for the team's week 17 game against the Detroit Lions, and reverted to the practice squad after the game.[12] He signed a reserve/future contract with the Vikings on January 4, 2021.[13] On March 5, 2021, he was waived by the Vikings.[14]
Arizona Cardinals
On May 17, 2021, Hayes signed with the Arizona Cardinals.[15] He was waived on August 5, 2021.
On August 4, 2022, Hayes signed with the Panthers.[18] He was waived on August 30, 2022, and signed to the practice squad the next day.[19][20] He was promoted to the active roster on October 25.[21] He was waived on December 10 and re-signed to the practice squad.[22] He was released on December 20.
New England Patriots
On December 27, 2022, Hayes was signed to the New England Patriots practice squad.[23] He was promoted to the active roster four days later.[24] On January 6, 2023, Hayes signed a two-year contract with New England. He was waived on February 15, 2023.[25]
On May 9, 2023, Hayes re-signed with the Patriots.[26][27] He was waived on June 12, 2023.
Detroit Lions
On August 4, 2023, Hayes signed with the Detroit Lions.[28] He was waived on August 11.[29]
Baltimore Ravens
On August 13, 2023, Hayes was claimed off waivers by the Baltimore Ravens.[30] He was waived on August 29.[31] He was re-signed to the practice squad on September 4, 2023.[32] He was released from the practice squad eight days later.[33]
New York Jets
On October 3, 2023, Hayes was signed to the New York Jets practice squad.[34] He signed a reserve/future contract on January 8, 2024.[35] He was released by the Jets on June 24, 2024.[36]
Personal life
On June 23, 2024, Hayes was arrested in Alabama for marijuana possession. He was released over an hour later after posting a $300 bond.[37]