Interestingly, A.J. Brown wasn’t the only [Philadelphia Eagles](https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/philadelphia-eagles) wide receiver to depart the franchise during the first week of June.
According to an X/Twitter post from the two-time Super Bowl champions, the NFC East organization has [also cut ties](https://x.com/Eagles/status/2062994045698257361) with their 6-foot-2 rookie WR.
“We have signed DT Zion Wilson and waived WR Brandon Hayes,” the Eagles stated.
After spending four seasons with Southern Miss and two with Southeastern Louisiana, Hayes declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. Hayes only recorded 42 receptions for 413 yards and five touchdowns as a receiver, but was far more effective as a kick returner (41 returns for 1,156 yards and three touchdowns in his collegiate career, earning him two first-team All-Southland Conference selections).
Shortly after going undrafted, Hayes was invited to the Eagles’ rookie camp, allowing him to try out for the team and keep his NFL hopes intact. While Philadelphia elected to sign the first-year wideout after his tryout, he clearly didn’t show enough promise during OTAs to help him stick with the franchise.
The good news for Hayes is that he now has valuable NFL experience that could help him latch on with a different organization before the start of the 2026-27 season.
In other words, Hayes knows what will and won’t fly at the NFL level, allowing him to make the necessary adjustments moving forward.
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