Hayward's play-making ability cannot be denied. In 2012, the second-round pick from Vanderbilt led all NFL rookies with six interceptions. He served as the nickel, or third, cornerback but also got the opportunity to start seven games at right cornerback while Sam Shields was out because of shin and ankle injuries.

Hayward said...started seven games outside as a rookie, and if you look up those seven games, I was not targeted much. I'm not saying I can match everything I've done so far. The thing about me is just continuing to be better, not just with my body but mentally. Just trying to see things before they come. Tramon definitely helped me out with the ideal way to prepare and the way that he studied film. He was prepared before the game so that he knew what was coming. I definitely want to thank him for all the things he did for me to help me become a better pro."

Hayward's position coach, Joe Whitt, has long maintained that Hayward can perform as well on the outside as he has in the slot.

"Casey has played better than most people realize, and he deserves more reps than he has played," Whitt said late last season. "I'm pleased that he hasn't complained or done anything like that because he grades out so high every week, and I want to give him more snaps, but there's only so many to go around."

Rob Demovsky  wrote: