Hayward Doesn’t Like “Routine” Mindset
June 2nd, 2013
Bucs linebacker Adam Hayward knows how to keep a guy in line — player or coach.
It’s one reason he was named special teams captain under the New Schiano Order last season, and Hayward takes his leadership role seriously, so he explained to the Buccaneers team video crew recently.
“When somebody needs that kick in the butt, a few of us will do it,” Hayward said.
In that quote, Hayward was referring to delivering discipline when he sees players taking a routine approach during OTA practices. He doesn’t like that mindset, which can happen, Hayward says, when players are familiar with a coaching staff.
Interestingly, the video shows Hayward appearing genuinely excited about the aggressive approach of Dave Wannstedt on special teams.
Joe wonders how strong — and valuable — Hayward’s leadership voice is and whether it will lose some of its punch if he’s not starting at outside linebacker.
June 2nd, 2013 at 12:53 pm
I don’t think it will loose much with the younger guys but may with the vets. He’s been around a few years now and having that “C” on his jersey should command respect just like in the military. Of course if he looses that “C” all bets are off.
I’m curious as to why a former NFL HC would want to take a special teams coach position. Any insight into that Joe?
June 2nd, 2013 at 7:03 pm
Obviously not, he has been named a team captain for years and there is a reason for that. Players have stated many times they listen to Hayward. Give the man his credit.
June 2nd, 2013 at 7:11 pm
Special Teams Captain is his niche. He doesn’t need to start at LB, just play great on Special teams and fill in at LB when needed. He did score a TD on special teams and Hayward can lay the wood when needed. He has 4.5 speed and his bill strong. If they need him to start at LB I’m sure he will, but his role has been well defined and he excels at it. Hayward is an intregal part of the team and he is bull strong. Don’t fix what isn’t broken. Watson and Goode will back up the LBs too and Casillas should be the guy. Watson is another special teams ace. It is what it is.
June 2nd, 2013 at 7:32 pm
Yeah, so I guess Joe is suggesting, that if Adam isn’t the starting OLB, his seniority and his team captain responsibilities diminishes. That’s crazy talk, every player on the team respects Adam regardless whether he is the starting OLB.
June 2nd, 2013 at 8:52 pm
considering Schiano thinks special teams is just as important as the offense and defense, I think that would only enhance his leadership abilities since he is a special teams captain. not to mention hes been in the league a while so he can impart some knowledge to the younger guys.
I mean the fact that the guy has survived 3 coaching changes should command some respect since very few bucs can claim that. He may not be a starter but he serves a purpose.
June 2nd, 2013 at 10:05 pm
We have one outstanding Lb one almost average and Hayward who is below average.
June 2nd, 2013 at 11:01 pm
Not to mention he excels in the community. “Buccaneer man”