Post by David on Aug 30, 2016 12:07:53 GMT -8
WR JJ Hayes (image credit: Colin Mulvany / Spokesman-Review)
8.30.16-
A day after WR Samuel Charles re-signed with the Spokane Empire, the team announced that WR J.J. Hayes has been signed to the 2017 roster.
Hayes (6'4'', 210 lbs) returns for his second season with the Empire, and his fifth season overall in the IFL. His veteran presence contributed to Spokane's 4th ranked passing attack, ranking second on the team (behind Carl Sims) with 65 receptions for 685 yards and 14 TDs. He also contributed in Spokane's running game, ranking 3rd on the team with 64 yards and 4 TDs. During the playoffs, Hayes caught 6 passes for 92 yards and a TD.
A graduate of Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas, Hayes enjoyed a standout career with the Cardinals> In his senior season, he recording 53 catches for 951 yards and 8 TDs, including a school record 212 yard performance against Northwestern State. At the end of the season, he earned Second Team All-Southland Conference honors.
Prior to joining the Empire in 2016, Hayes got his start in indoor/arena football in 2013 with the AFL's Jacksonville Sharks. He did not see the field with the Sharks and eventually finding his way into the IFL as a member of the Chicago Slaughter, recording 22 receptions for 314 yards and 4 TDs in 6 games. He also contributed in the Slaughter's kick return game, returning 17 kicks for 293 yards.
In 2014, Hayes signed with the Cedar Rapids Titans. In 13 games with the Titans, he recorded 39 receptions for 451 yards and 10 TDs. In 2015, Hayes signed with the Wichita Falls Nighthawks, recording 43 receptions for 470 yards and 7 touchdowns in 10 games.
Head Coach Adam Shackleford had nothing but praise for Hayes in the team's press announcement. “J.J. Hayes is our emotional leader and a very important part of our offensive production,” he said. “He probably has the best hands of any receiver I’ve ever coached and can make tough catches look easy, plus he’s very good at creating big plays after the catch.”
- DKH
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