#59
Chris Hayes
Returning to Southern Miss for 2026
R-Jr. · Starkville, Miss. → Starkville HS
via southernmiss.com ↗This season's coverage starts August 26 — check back once kickoff hits.
Chris Hayes
Limited signal — not enough coverage for a story yet.
Career Arc
HS
Recruit
★★★
CFB
College
—
NFL
NFL Draft
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How he plays
2026 Outlook
Southern Miss
2026 Depth chart
Projected starter
Defensive line · Southern Miss
Returning around him
- 52% of 2024 offensive production back (Solid continuity)
- Transfer portal: +9 net (37 in / 28 out)
2026 Award watch
No preseason watch lists yet (most drop June 15 – July 15)
Southern Miss · Last season: 7-6 · Talent rank #83 · 2026 recruiting class #107
Heisman trajectory
Heisman Trajectory · 2025
Peak #12431
Peaked at #12431 this season.
Background
2024 (R-Fr.): Played in nine games…Saw action mostly on special teams. 2023 (Fr.): Appeared in four games with no starting assignments…Played on special teams…Redshirted. High School: Helped Starkville High to the Class 6A State championship this fall, defeating Brandon 48-32 at The Rock…Named to...