In a long-awaited verdict, Cardell Hayes has been found guilty of manslaughter in the shooting death of former Saints defensive end, Will Smith, in 2016. The jury delivered the verdict, convicting Hayes of manslaughter, but acquitting him of attempted manslaughter for injuring Smith's wife, Racquel Smith, in the same incident.

Hayes had previously been convicted of manslaughter in 2016 and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. However, his conviction was overturned by the Supreme Court four years later due to the non-unanimous jury verdict. The Court ruled that all convictions must be unanimous, leading to Hayes being free during the last four years as he awaited a retrial.

For Racquel Smith, the legal proceedings have taken a toll on her family. In a statement, she discussed the burden they have endured and expressed a hope that Hayes, who claimed self-defense in the shooting, will finally take responsibility for his actions.

Following the reading of the verdict, Hayes was taken into custody and now awaits sentencing. He faces a potential prison term of up to 40 years. Smith, who was a first-round draft pick of the Saints in 2004 and a valued member of their Super Bowl XLIV-winning team, continues to be remembered as a talented athlete. He is also an esteemed member of the Saints' Hall of Fame.

The outcome of this trial brings closure to this tragic incident, while also raising further questions about the legal system and the impact of jury unanimity in such cases. As the sentencing phase approaches, the court will determine the appropriate punishment for Hayes, as the Smith family hopes for justice to be served.