Five-star LB Daelin Hayes decommits from USC after Sarkisian news
Five-star linebacker prospect Daelin Hayes has decommitted from USC following head coach Steve Sarkisian’s decision to take a leave of absence, Hayes announced on Twitter Sunday.
USC athletic director Pat Hayden announced Sunday that Sarkisian had been asked to take an indefinite leave of absence, reportedly to undergo alcohol abuse treatment. Players and coaches had noted they believed Sarkisian had been drunk during team events, including their Sept. 26 game against Arizona State, according to multiple reports.
Hayes, who is Rivals’ No. 13 prospect in the 2016 recruiting class and the No. 4 linebacker, tweeted his decommitment a few hours after the news broke.
“At this time my family and I feel that it is in my best interest to de-commit from the University of Southern California and open up my recruitment process,” Hayes wrote. “I’d like you thank the USC Coaching staff for the opportunities that they have placed before me.”
Hayes, who is 6'3", 254 pounds, was recruited by more than 25 schools, and made an unofficial visit to Notre Dame during his original recruitment process.
Offensive coordinator Clay Helton was named USC’s interim coach, and is set to lead the team against Notre Dame on Saturday.
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- Erin Flynn
