Name: Nic Hayes
School: Millsaps College 
Position: WR/KR
Height: 5-7
Weight: 168

Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season? 

With this being my final year of college eligibility, I wanted it to be my best both team wise and individually, especially after having my season cut short last year due to injury. Unfortunately my team wasn’t as successful as we had hoped to be. However, I was able to reach some personal goals of mine including obtaining my masters degree, reaching 600 all purpose yards in the season, being a leader on my team, and being a semi-finalist for the Willam Campbell Trophy. Even though I didn’t reach all of my goals, I finished this season without any regrets knowing that I put my all into every practice and game this season. Another big goal of mine was setting myself up to continue playing ball, and I was invited to the All-American Bowl game where I was named offensive MVP so I definitely achieved my main goal this season.

Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?

I believe my coaches and teammates would say that I’m an extremely hard worker. I definitely believe in the philosophy that what you put in is what you get out so I came in everyday with my hard hat on ready to go to work whether that be in the weight room, thd field, the film room, or the class room. I also believe that they’d say that I was a good leader as I was on my team’s leadership council and took a lot of ownership in my position group. Lastly, my coaches and teammates would say that I’m someone who’s trustworthy and dependable on and off the field. Whatever they asked me to do, I did and put my all into it. Getting key blocks, making big catches, bringing the younger guys along, my coaches trusted me and I was able to do it all.

Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?

When studying film, especially playing receiver, I’m very detail oriented when it comes to improving my game. I pay a lot of attention to how many steps I’m taking out of my breaks. I also spend a lot of time looking at my releases and how I can make them more effective and use them to my advantage against different defenders. Playing WR is all about creating separation, and that separation is created in the details so I’m hammering those super heavy every time I watch film.

Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position? 

What separates me as a prospect is my speed and quickness and attention to detail. Also my route running is something that separates me from others. Playing in the slot and outside, I was able to create a lot of separation using everything I had in my bag, and I think that’s what really helped me stand out on the field. I also think my football IQ separates me from others as I’m able to identify holes in zones and find green grass. Lastly, I believe my desire to be great separates me from others. Continuing to play football is something I’ve always dreamed of, and dreams don’t come true without putting the work in so I’m constantly working to make that dream a reality.

Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?

My off-season plan to train is to continue doing what I’ve been doing to get me to this point, but I’m going to put it into another gear. I’ve got an amazing football family that has helped me get to this point. I’ve been doing skill work with Greg Moore and Fast Break since high school and he’s definitely helped bring my game to this point and will continue to do so. I’m also in the weight room six days a week pushing myself to get better everyday. I’ve also been working on all of my combine, testing things to show scouts all of the physical abilities that I have.

Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?

The biggest strength that I’ll bring to any team is being a reliable receiver who will create separation and make big plays both receiving and in the return game. I’m a very versatile player; I’ve played outside, in the slot, gotten jet sweeps, returned kicks, held field goals…anything to get on the field and help my team be successful. Off the field I’m a leader who will lead by example and do everything the right way. If I’m working out or getting extra work in, I’m letting everybody in my position group now so that we can all get better as a collective and as a team. I’m a team first-guy and want to win!

Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?

My biggest pitch to all coaches and leagues is that I’m a high-character guy who is dedicated to being the BEST. Everyday, I’m putting 1000% in to be the best and not letting anything stop me. I’m an impact player and leader who’s willing to do anything to help the team win! It’s reflected in my film and the way I play the game with a lot of passion. I’m the guy you NEED on your team!