Updated

Memphis running back Brandon Hayes has been granted a sixth year of eligibility by the NCAA.

The NCAA's decision to approve a waiver for Hayes was announced Monday in a university release. Hayes rushed for a team-high 860 yards and five touchdowns on 201 carries this past season. He gained 576 yards rushing in 2012.

Hayes joined the Tigers as walk-on in the spring of 2010, but his eligibility clock technically started when he arrived on campus in the fall of 2009. He missed the entire 2010 season with a knee injury and transferred to Scottsdale (Ariz.) Community College for the 2011 season before returning to Memphis in 2012.

Memphis also announced Monday that it will begin spring practice March 2 and will hold its spring game April 11.