<p>Geno Hayes, a former NFL linebacker who starred at Florida State, has died. He was 33.</p>
<p>The Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Tuesday confirmed his death. He had liver disease and had been in hospice care.</p>
<p>Hayes spent four seasons with the Bucs, who drafted him in the sixth round in 2008. He then played one year with Chicago and two with Jacksonville.</p>
<p>“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.”</p>
<p>New York Jets coach Robert Saleh was coaching Jaguars linebackers in 2014 and worked with Hayes.</p>
<p>“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. "He was an amazing person who left a mark on everyone who had the pleasure of connecting with him.”</p>
<p>Hayes started 70 games for his career. He made 401 tackles, 48 for losses. He had 10 sacks, six interceptions and six forced fumbles.</p>
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