As the New York Giants continue their determined march towards the playoffs, one player has emerged as a critical asset in their offensive arsenal: second-year wide receiver Jalin Hyatt.
Rising to the Challenge
Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 185 pounds, Hyatt's physical prowess is immediately evident. However, in the grueling landscape of the NFL, maintaining an edge sometimes means making unexpected adjustments. For Hyatt, that has involved an intensified effort to gain weight, a task that has proven challenging. "It's definitely hard for myself (to gain weight). Some guys, it's easier for them to gain weight or gain muscle. For myself, it's harder. I burn a lot of calories quick. I'm just one of those guys that's got to just keep eating," he explained.
To address this, Hyatt has adopted a unique dietary inclusion: Uncrustables, the convenient frozen peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. This might seem unusual, but for Hyatt, they serve a specific purpose. "PB&J's was one of my biggest things, because you want to eat your full meal. You don't want to eat a little bit and drink a protein shake. Then you're not really getting anything. So, for myself, finishing, completing your full meals, and then, an hour later or 30 minutes later, that's when you put in an Uncrustables or a PB&J or a little protein shake," he elaborated.
From Tennessee to the Big Apple
Hyatt's journey to the professional stage began at Tennessee, where he honed the skills that would eventually lead him to become a third-round pick for the Giants. Transitioning from college football to the NFL is never seamless, yet Hyatt has adapted swiftly, showcasing his talent with notable performances.
In Week 2 of the 2023 season, Hyatt made a significant impact with a 58-yard reception that proved pivotal in the Giants' narrow three-point victory over the Arizona Cardinals. Consistently demonstrating his ability to deliver under pressure, he further cemented his value in Week 7, recording two catches for 75 yards to help secure a 14-7 win against the Washington Commanders.
Breakout Performance
Hyatt's ascent reached a new peak in Week 12 when he notched his first 100-yard receiving game in the NFL. His critical role in the Giants' tight victory over the New England Patriots highlighted his development and the growing trust placed in him by the team.
The wide receiver's performances are not only a testament to his hard work but also to his high expectations. "For me, I always set high expectations. Just looking at our team, looking at what we got—for goals, I just want a team goal. We have a playoff team. That's what we want to do. That's our focus and we're gonna get there," Hyatt stated.
As the Giants continue their pursuit of playoff success, Jalin Hyatt's growth as a player will undoubtedly be one of the key narratives to watch. His unique combination of physical skill, relentless effort, and strategic dietary choices underscores the multi-faceted approach necessary to succeed at the highest level of the game. If his performances thus far are any indication, Hyatt is not only ready to meet expectations but to exceed them, helping the Giants to strive towards their postseason dreams.