LB Daelin Hayes predicts 'dominating' season at Skyline

Ann Arbor — Daelin Hayes stretched out in front of the watchful eyes of Ann Arbor Skyline offensive coordinator Andre Rison before a practice on a hot summer afternoon.

Hayes, a 6-foot-4, 240-pound five-star linebacker with 4.5 speed, was all smiles while preparing for his senior season.

Hayes had reason to be excited. He left Orchard Lake St. Mary's for St. Bonaventure in California for his sophomore year last summer, then came back to Michigan midway through the season.

Second-year Skyline head coach Chanterius Brock plans to use Hayes in multiple ways and the standout player says he's up to the challenge.

"I'll be playing slot, wide receiver, running back, tight end, linebacker and D-end," said Hayes, who is listed as the No. 2 outside linebacker in the country by Rivals and No. 14 by Scout. "I'm looking forward to dominating this season. I just want to get back on the field and play."

He will be counted on to help turn Skyline's program around. The Eagles were 0-9 last season, losing by an average of 21 points.

Hayes is not the lone new addition. Skyline also has four-star junior receiver Hunter Rison, Andre's son and a Michigan State recruit, and quarterback Joe Bob Walker transferring in.

"I've never been pushed like this like I've been pushed in the last six months since I've been here," Hayes said.

"It's been an excellent opportunity. Coach Rison (former NFL receiver) obviously has done this at the highest level. Coach Brock has coached my position at the next level."

Hayes committed to USC last summer, picking the school over such national powers as Alabama, Ohio State, Notre Dame, Michigan State, LSU and Georgia.

"It was just a perfect fit," Hayes said. "I love California, love being around the coaching staff. The coaches were a genuine group. I've built a relationship with them for the last year and a half. I'm just real comfortable with them."