Panthers' Hayden Hurst shedding light on veteran suicide prevention for NFL's My Cause My Cleats

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This story discusses suicide. If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, please contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 or 1-800-273-TALK (8255).

NFL players are always trying to look their best on the field during game day, but Week 12 in the NFL brings more importance to the gear that's worn, specifically footwear. 

My Cause My Cleats is an NFL initiative that allows players to wear customized cleats that bring awareness to charitable causes, and they will be featured in Weeks 13 and 14 this season. 

Carolina Panthers tight end Hayden Hurst's cause is one he's proud to represent, though it comes from his own rock-bottom experience.

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Carolina Panthers tight end Hayden Hurst is supporting Face The Fight, a coalition established by USAA in 2023 that aims to raise awareness and support for veteran suicide prevention, and his Hayden Hurst Family Foundation for the NFL's My Cause My Cleats this week.  (USAA)

In 2016, Hurst woke up in a hospital after a night of drinking. A friend told him Hurst had cut his wrist, and he found Hurst in a "puddle of blood." Hurst, a standout for the South Carolina Gamecocks, had attempted suicide. 

Hurst was living with depression and addiction issues at the time, but that terrifying moment waking up in the hospital was one that changed his life. He called it a "come to Jesus moment," he told the First Coast News. 

Since then, Hurst has not been ashamed to share his story, hoping he can lead others to assistance if they need it.

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