Hayes Puckett brings dependable, team-first depth to Southern Miss’s defensive backfield
Puckett’s 2024 production was modest, with 4 tackles in 11 games, but his value shows up in reliability, special-teams usage, and a proven willingness to do the dirty work. In 2023, he appeared in all 12 games and posted 15 tackles with 2 tackles for loss, showing he can contribute when given a bigger role. At 5-10, 185, he’s not a headline-measurement prospect, but his background includes strong high-school ball production, academic recognition, and a reputation as a steady, disciplined worker—useful traits for a staff looking for toughness and dependable depth.[1][2][3]
