Jalin Hyatt Discusses Challenges in His Second Year with the New York Giants and Maintains Optimistic Viewpoint
This season hasn't been necessarily easy for second-year wide receiver Jalin Hyatt.
Bringing high expectations, Hyatt demonstrated some impressive moments during his rookie run, accumulating 23 receptions for 372 yards (average of 16.2 yards per reception). He even managed to score his first 100-yard receiving game in the Giants' Week 12 victory against the New England Patriots, earning him the title of Offensive Rookie of the Week.
Unfortunately, his 2024 campaign hasn't gone as planned, with Hyatt only catching seven passes for 53 yards. Despite seeing 51% of the offensive snaps during the 2023 season, he now appears in just 35% of such plays in 2024.
Making matters more challenging is his positioning on the depth chart, severely behind this year's rookie sensation Malik Nabers, seasoned veteran Darius Slayton, and third-year receiver Wan'Dale Robinson.
Yet, Hyatt maintains a positive attitude, expressing he feels "confident."
"I'm still the same guy, still feeling confident, still staying ready," Hyatt explained in a one-on-one Q&A. "It's been a difficult season for us this year, but we'll overcomethis and figure it out next year."
A standout player at the University of Tennessee, where he captured the Fred Biletnikoff Award and Unanimous All-American status, Hyatt was a third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. His exceptional 2023 campaign earned him the SEC's leading receiver yards and touchdowns title.
Regrettably, he has barely had an opportunity to display his skills during his second year in the NFL.
"Just being aware of who I am and staying ready for my moment" Hyatt shared. "Preparing diligently in practice, utilizing practices and playing time efficaciously. This season has been a challenge for us offensively, but once we unravel and determine what needs addressing, we'll be fine."
Despite the downset in his sophomore campaign and promising performances from the 2023 season, Hyatt views the situation optimistically.
Hyatt has been frank regarding the team's collective struggles, acknowledging the Giants' 2-11 record and likelihood of drafting the first pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
"Indeed, it's been a challenge for us as a unit" Hyatt stated. "There are numerous elements requiring improvement. It's not just the receiver room, but our offense must improve collectively and will."
The Giants' are already planning to target a new starting quarterback in the 2025 NFL Draft, whether it's Colorado's Shedeur Sanders or Miami's Cam Ward.
New York is currently relying on backups Drew Lock and Tommy DeVito as their starters for the remainder of the season. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the team's quarterback situation subsequent to 2024, as well as head coach Brian Daboll's potential return, Hyatt remains focused on improving for his third campaign.
"There's always room for improvement for myself" Hyatt said. "I'll continue dedicating time to the weight room, aiming to grow and better. As a team, we have areas to enhance, and we'll tackle that in practice and work to improve consistently."
Hyatt also enthusiastically speaks about his "partnership" with World of Hyatt. Given his name and the brand's title, this collaboration makes sense. But Hyatt says it has been an exceptional experience, as the hotel chain assists him significantly when it comes to travel comfort.
"Actually, we've worked together for about three years now, it's a wonderful collaboration" Hyatt said. "I really appreciate it, since I value comfort when on the road - whether it's for away games or vacations. Knowing there's a Hyatt location for me to stay and rest is a great feeling."
The Giants' second-year receiver has partnered with Hyatt since his junior year at Tennessee, and the Headspace app is his favored aspect of collaborating with the hotel brand.
"They have an amazing partnership with Headspace. It offers tips on sleep, anxiety, stress and jet lag. Traveling can be draining, and it's great to have the Headspace app in your back pocket to help you relax and recharge."
Jalin Hyatt remarked that despite Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, and Wan'Dale Robinson being ahead of him on the depth chart, he still feels confident and ready for his moment. During the 2025 NFL Draft, the New York Giants are planning to target a new starting quarterback, which could impact Hyatt's third season in the NFL. Jalin Hyatt has established a successful partnership with the World of Hyatt, particularly appreciating their collaboration with the Headspace app to aid him in managing travel-related stress and jet lag.
