ATLANTA – NOVEMBER 29: Geno Hayes #54 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers against the Atlanta Falcons at Georgia Dome on November 29, 2009 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Geno Hayes has died at age 33.
Two years ago, Hayes was diagnosed with liver disease and had been waiting for a liver transplant.
Hayes had also played with the Bears and Jaguars through his career and was linebacker for the Florida State Seminoles.
The Buccaneers shared a statement reading, "We are deeply saddened to learn of Geno Hayes' passing. During his time with the Buccaneers, Geno was a beloved teammate and often the first player to volunteer his time to our efforts in the community. He frequently visited schools and had a remarkable ability to connect with children. Losing him at such a young age is heartbreaking. Our thoughts are with his family."
