Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

Donald Hayes (Wisconsin) - 1998 NFL Draft Pick #106 by CAR

---

Pre-Draft Analysis: Donald Hayes

College: University of Wisconsin

Position: Wide Receiver

Draft Year: 1998

Overview

Donald Hayes was a standout wide receiver at the University of Wisconsin, known for his impressive combination of size, speed, and athleticism. As the 1998 NFL Draft approached, he was regarded as one of the more intriguing prospects due to his physical abilities and production at the collegiate level.

Strengths

• Size and Physicality: At 6'4" and around 210 pounds, Hayes possessed the ideal size for an NFL wide receiver, making him a mismatch against smaller defensive backs.
• Speed: His speed allowed him to stretch the field and create separation from defenders, making him a deep threat on passing plays.
• Catch Radius: With his long arms and leaping ability, Hayes had a large catch radius, enabling him to make difficult catches in contested situations.
• Route Running: He demonstrated solid route-running skills, showing the ability to create separation and run precise routes.

Weaknesses

• Consistency: There were concerns about his consistency, particularly in terms of catching the ball and maintaining focus during games.
• Experience: While he had a productive college career, some scouts felt he needed more experience against top-tier competition to fully assess his potential at the professional level.
• Blocking Skills: His blocking skills were not a strong point, which could limit his effectiveness in run-heavy offensive schemes.

Projected Draft Position

Donald Hayes was projected to be selected in the mid to late rounds of the 1998 NFL Draft. His physical attributes and potential for growth made him an attractive option for teams looking for a wide receiver with upside.

Final Thoughts

Donald Hayes was viewed as a player with the tools to succeed in the NFL, but his success would largely depend on his ability to refine his skills and adapt to the professional game. Teams that valued physical attributes and potential over immediate production saw him as a worthwhile investment.