Coming out of high school, Hayes was rated as a three star recruit, where he decided to commit to play college football for the Oregon State Beavers.
[1][2] In Hayes first two collegiate seasons in 2018 and 2019, he totaled 46 tackles, eight pass deflections, and an interception, in 17 games.
[5] After the conclusion of the 2020 season, Hayes decided to enter his name into the NCAA transfer portal.
[10] During the 2022 season, Hayes played in twelve games, while making ten starts for the Cougars, where he notched 41 tackles and seven pass deflections.
[16][17] On January 8, 2024, after spending the entire 2023 season on the Giants practice squad, Hayes signed a futures contract with New York.