Jonathan Hayes, an American football player known for his role as a tight end, began his professional career when he was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the second round of the 1985 NFL Draft. Born on August 11, 1962, in South Fayette, Pennsylvania, Hayes attended the University of Iowa, where he played college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes. His performance at Iowa caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection by the Chiefs.
During his tenure with the Kansas City Chiefs, Hayes developed a reputation as a reliable tight end, contributing both as a receiver and a blocker. His size and strength made him a valuable asset in the Chiefs' offensive schemes. Over the years, he became known for his ability to support the running game while also providing a dependable target in the passing game. Hayes spent nine seasons with the Chiefs, from 1985 to 1993, during which he played in numerous games and became a steady presence on the field.
In 1994, Hayes signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, bringing his experience and skills to the team. He played with the Steelers for two seasons, continuing to demonstrate his abilities as a tight end. His time in Pittsburgh allowed him to contribute to a team that was consistently competitive in the NFL during the mid-1990s.
Throughout his NFL career, Hayes was recognized for his work ethic and professionalism. He played in a total of 184 games, recording 153 receptions for 1,718 yards and 13 touchdowns. His career statistics reflect his role as a dependable player who contributed to his teams' offensive efforts.
After retiring from professional football, Hayes transitioned into coaching, where he continued to share his knowledge and experience with younger players. His post-playing career included coaching positions at both the collegiate and professional levels, further extending his involvement in the sport.
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