As the New York Giants navigate the demanding NFL season with their eyes set firmly on a playoff berth, one player that has stood out is second-year wide receiver Jalin Hyatt. The young receiver has quickly become an indispensable part of the Giants' offense, delivering crucial plays game after game.
Hyatt's Physical Preparations
Standing at an impressive 6 feet tall and weighing 185 pounds, Hyatt has made a concerted effort to bulk up for the rigors of the NFL. Gaining weight has been a challenging task for the athletic receiver, who admits it’s not as straightforward for him as it might be for others.
"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," Hyatt explained.
To address this, Hyatt has adopted a unique dietary strategy, which includes incorporating Uncrustables—those frozen, individually wrapped peanut butter and jelly sandwiches—into his meal plan. This approach allows him to get the necessary calories without feeling overeaten.
"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 detailed.
On-Field Impact
Drafted in the third round out of Tennessee, Hyatt came into the Giants' roster with high expectations. So far, he has lived up to the hype, making significant contributions in critical moments. His 58-yard reception was a game-changing play that contributed to the Giants' narrow three-point victory over the Cardinals in Week 2 of the 2023 season.
Hyatt's performances have showcased his ability to make crucial plays when it matters the most. This was further evident in Week 7, where he recorded two catches for 75 yards, playing a substantial role in New York's 14-7 win over the Commanders. His knack for making big plays in tight situations demonstrates not just his skills but also his growing confidence and chemistry with the team's quarterbacks.
First 100-Yard Game
In Week 12, Hyatt reached a significant milestone in his young NFL career by notching his first 100-yard receiving game. This achievement came in a tight victory over the Patriots, further cementing his status as a key player for the Giants.
Performances like these underscore Hyatt's value to the team as they strive to reach the playoffs, a goal that is clearly on his mind.
"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 with determination.
As Jalin Hyatt continues to grow both on and off the field, his contributions to the Giants cannot be overstated. With his unique blend of talent, hard work, and determination, he is poised to play an instrumental role in the Giants' pursuit of success. His story is one that embodies the grit and perseverance needed to excel in the NFL, making him a player to watch as the season progresses.