The New York Jets have made the decision to release cornerback Tae Hayes after his recent arrest on a charge of marijuana possession. The 26-year-old athlete was taken into custody early Sunday morning in Alabama, as confirmed by the Morgan County Sheriff’s Office. Hayes, who stands at 5-foot-9 and weighs 188 pounds, was subsequently booked and later released after posting a $300 bond.
In response to the incident, the Jets issued a statement acknowledging the situation and refrained from further comment, citing the pending legal matter. With Hayes no longer part of the team, the Jets have distanced themselves from the issue entirely.
Hayes joined the Jets’ practice squad on October 3, 2022, and was elevated for their victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 6, where he contributed two tackles. Prior to his time with the Jets, Hayes had a journeyman career, having played for the Jaguars, Dolphins, Panthers, Patriots, Vikings, and Ravens. Throughout his professional tenure, he participated in 14 games, accumulating 18 tackles, one fumble recovery, and two passes defensed.
Before entering the NFL, Hayes showcased his skills as a standout defensive back at Appalachian State. He hails from Decatur, Alabama, where he played high school football before going undrafted in 2019. Additionally, Hayes had a stint with the Birmingham Stallions, a team that now competes in the United Football League and won the 2022 USFL championship.
Having signed a reserve/future contract with the Jets in January, Hayes was expected to compete for a roster spot. However, his recent legal troubles have led to his release from the team, abruptly ending his tenure with the Jets.
1 Response
While the decision to release Tae Hayes may seem like a typical response to an arrest for marijuana possession, it is important to consider alternative approaches to handling such situations. Instead of immediately terminating the player’s contract, the New York Jets could have taken a more proactive approach by offering support and guidance to help Hayes overcome his legal issues.
One potential solution could be implementing a comprehensive player assistance program that focuses on educating and rehabilitating players who face legal troubles. This program could include mandatory counseling sessions, drug education