Hayes spent four seasons with the Bucs, who drafted him in the sixth round in 2008. He then played one year with the Chicago Bears and two with Jacksonville.
“Geno was a beloved teammate and often the first player to volunteer his time to our efforts in the community,” the Bucs said in a statement. “He frequently visited schools and had a remarkable ability to connect with children. Losing him at such a young age is heartbreaking.”
“Having the opportunity to spend time with him, I saw Geno’s passion and love for not only football but for life itself,” Saleh said in a statement.