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ORIGIN2 min read

The NFL Banned Stickum In 1981. Lester Hayes Had 13 Interceptions The Season Before.

Raiders cornerback Lester Hayes intercepted 13 passes in 1980 while using Stickum. The NFL banned adhesives the next year, and the rule is still in the book.

Stickum is an adhesive that NFL players used for years to help them grip the ball. Lester Hayes was introduced to it in his 1977 rookie season by Raiders receiver Fred Biletnikoff.

The 1980 season

Hayes intercepted 13 passes in the 1980 regular season, according to his NFL.com career stats. He had 25 interceptions across his first four seasons.

The ban

The league banned the use of adhesives such as Stickum in 1981. The change became known as the Lester Hayes rule. In the six seasons he played after it, Hayes had 14 interceptions.

What the rulebook says now

Adhesive or slippery substances on the body, equipment, or uniform of any player; provided, however, that players may wear gloves with a tackified surface if such tacky substance does not adhere to the football or otherwise cause handling problems for players.

  • 01Found during a game: the player is removed until he has complied
  • 02He must remain out of the game for one play
  • 03A repeat violation is disqualification from the game

Quick answers

When did the NFL ban Stickum?
In 1981. The change became known as the Lester Hayes rule.
How many interceptions did Lester Hayes have in 1980?
13 in the regular season, according to his NFL.com career stats.
Are sticky gloves legal in the NFL?
Yes. The rulebook allows gloves with a tackified surface if the tacky substance does not adhere to the football or cause handling problems for players.
What happens to a player caught with an adhesive substance?
He is removed from the game until he has complied, and he must remain out for one play. A repeat violation is disqualification.

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