Lester Hayes became a catalyst for an NFL rule change with his unique approach to catching. The former Oakland cornerback’s influence on this rule change demonstrates the impact a single player can have on the NFL’s rules and regulations. In the past, players were permitted to use a sticky substance known as Stickum to gain an advantage in catching passes.
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Hayes’ unconventional catching method led to a shift in the league’s policies, as Stickum is no longer a part of the game. The Pro Bowler was a dominant force in the ’70s and ’80s, and he even compelled the league to ban glue for catching.
Lester Hayes’ Impact on the NFL’s Rule Shift
Lester Hayes learned about Stickum during his rookie season in 1977. He was introduced to the grip-enhancing substance by Hall of Famer teammate, Fred Biletnikoff. What made Hayes distinct was his excessive use of Stickum, applying it not just on his hands but all over his arms and uniform, which attracted the NFL’s significant attention.
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Before discovering Stickum, Lester Hayes was a former college linebacker with NFL aspirations. However, it transformed him into a key figure for the Raiders. He was known to adapt various strategies for winning. His dominant use of Stickum, necessitated by their aggressive coverage, led to impressive results.
During an interview with ESPN in 2007, Hayes emphasized the team’s unwavering commitment to winning. Their approach, whether mental or physical, was to employ any means necessary for victory. He said:
“The sole focus of our team was to win consistently. Whether it was a mental or a physical advantage, we were going to do whatever was necessary to win. Our attitude was that if we could get away with something, we were going to do it.”
In 1980, he received the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award for his remarkable 13 regular-season interceptions and five more in the postseason. After the 1980 season, the NFL prohibited Stickum. The NFL knew the use of stickum was disruptive and in 1981, they banned the use of the glue. Rule 5 Article 4 Item 8 of the rulebook, unofficially known as “The Lester Hayes Rule” states the ban of “adhesive or slippery substances on the body, equipment, or uniform of any player.” However, this did not slow down Hayes, who was voted to the Pro Bowl in 1981 and 1982, after the rule change.
Exploring the 2X Super Bowl Champion, Lester Hayes’ Career Stats
Despite an impressive 39 career interceptions in his ten years with the Raiders, he humbly referred to himself as “a mere mortal” after the league outlawed the substance. Lester Hayes had a remarkable career that began at Texas A&M and continued with the NFL’s Los Angeles/Oakland Raiders. Drafted in the 5th round, 126th overall in 1977, he left an indelible mark in the league. Hayes achieved two Super Bowls (XV and XVIII). He earned First-team All-Pro and Second-team All-Pro honors in 1980 and 1983, respectively.
Lester Hayes looking for running room during one of his 39 career regular season interception returns. Lester gained 572 yards on his INT returns and averaged 14.6 yards per return. He scored 4 #picksixes. pic.twitter.com/4v6eP98hAI
— Raiders History (@Oaklraiders1976) October 17, 2023
Hayes’ 5 Pro Bowl appearances spanned from 1980 to 1984, and he topped the NFL in interceptions in 1980. With 39 interceptions, 572 interception yards, 7 fumble recoveries, and 5 defensive touchdowns, Hayes built a legacy to be remembered forever. He was also recognized on the NFL 1980s All-Decade team. He retired in 1986 after an injury two years prior slowed down his career.
