Hayden Hurst is a professional NFL player who shifted from baseball to football, emerging as a successful tight end. He was drafted 25th in total by the Baltimore Ravens in 2018 and has played for multiple teams, achieving over 200 receptions and 100 touchdowns in his career. His path includes overcoming mental health challenges, which inspired him to advocate for awareness and support in the community. There is much more to investigate about his impactful story and achievements.
Early Life
Hayden Hurst experienced a varied early life, demonstrating his athletic talents primarily in baseball during his time at The Bolles School, where he played only one season of football.
In 2012, he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates, yet encountered difficulties with pitch control, which ultimately led him to struggle with depression and substance abuse.
After stepping away from baseball in 2015, Hurst sought therapy and support from his family, allowing him to recover and redirect his focus toward football at the University of South Carolina.
There, he earned the nickname “Garnet Thor” and made a notable impact on the field, becoming the all-time leader in career receptions for a tight end and earning top team All-SEC honors in 2017.
His early life experiences, particularly his battles with mental health, inspired him to commit to suicide prevention, leading him to establish a foundation aimed at helping others facing similar challenges.
Family Life
Hayden Hurst’s family, with strong athletic ties, has been a crucial support system throughout his life.
His parents have been particularly influential, championing his mental health advocacy and guiding him through the challenges he faced while moving from baseball to football. Their steadfast encouragement has played a notable role in Hurst’s personal growth and success in the NFL.
This close-knit family dynamic has not only shaped his career but has also motivated him to promote mental health awareness and suicide prevention, reflecting the values instilled in him by his family.
Career
Hayden Hurst was selected 25th in total by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2018 NFL Draft, launching his professional football career.
Over his seven-year tenure in the NFL, he has participated in 294 games, making 203 receptions for 1,975 receiving yards and scoring 105 touchdowns.
Hurst gained recognition for his exceptional college career at South Carolina, where he set the record for the most career receptions by a tight end and was honored as a top team All-SEC tight end in 2017.
Throughout his career, he has played for the Ravens, Falcons, Bengals, Panthers, and Chargers, maneuvering challenges including multiple stints on injured reserve.
Net Worth
As of October 2023, Hayden Hurst’s net worth is estimated at $6 million, primarily from his NFL contracts and endorsements.
His recent three-year deal with the Carolina Panthers, valued at $21 million, greatly enhances his wealth.
Throughout his career, Hurst has drawn cumulative earnings exceeding $15 million, with notable salaries from key contracts including $4.6 million with the Baltimore Ravens, $1.5 million with the Atlanta Falcons, and approximately $3 million during his time with the Cincinnati Bengals.