Lester Hayes to Be Inducted into Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2025
January 24, 2025 – In a long-awaited and much-deserved recognition of his outstanding career, Lester Hayes, the former Oakland Raiders cornerback, has been selected for induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Hayes will be enshrined in Canton during the upcoming 2025 class, marking a significant milestone in a career that defined an era of Raiders football.
Hayes, who played for the Raiders from 1977 to 1986, was known for his incredible ability to shut down some of the league’s top receivers, earning a reputation as one of the best cornerbacks of his era. His hallmark move, the use of stickum, became legendary, as Hayes used the sticky substance to enhance his ability to catch interceptions. His unique style led to 39 career interceptions, including a career-high 13 in 1980, and he was named to the Pro Bowl three times.
Perhaps most memorably, Hayes played a key role in the Raiders’ Super Bowl XV victory over the Philadelphia Eagles, where he made several pivotal plays in the secondary. His shutdown performance helped the Raiders secure their first Super Bowl championship while making a lasting impact on the defense, ultimately earning him the title of one of the most feared cornerbacks of the 1980s.
Lester Hayes’ Hall of Fame selection comes after years of being a finalist but never quite making the final cut. His persistent presence on the ballot and the growing recognition of his defensive mastery were major factors in his eventual enshrinement.
“I’m truly humbled and excited to be part of the Hall of Fame class of 2025,” Hayes said in a statement. “It’s an honor to be mentioned alongside the greatest to ever play the game. I’ve always said it’s not just about individual accolades but the team’s success, and to have been part of the Raiders’ legacy, and to be recognized by my peers, is incredibly special.”
Raiders fans, who have long advocated for Hayes’ inclusion in the Hall of Fame, celebrated the announcement with cheers and pride, knowing their defensive icon is finally getting the recognition he deserves.
Hayes will be officially inducted during the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Ceremony in August 2025. The event promises to be a special occasion for Raiders fans and football enthusiasts who have long admired his work on the field.
