The New York Giants are making significant strides this season, and one player at the heart of their drive toward playoff success is second-year wide receiver Jalin Hyatt. The 6-foot, 185-pound athlete has dedicated himself to becoming an invaluable part of the team, an effort evident in both his preparation and performance on the field.
Hyatt’s Rigorous Preparation
In anticipation of another challenging NFL season, Hyatt has intensified his focus on gaining weight—a task more arduous for him than for some of his peers. "It's definitely hard for myself (to gain weight)," Hyatt admits. "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."
To tackle this metabolic challenge, Hyatt has turned to a somewhat unconventional dietary plan, incorporating Uncrustables—frozen, individually wrapped peanut butter and jelly sandwiches—into his regimen. "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 elaborates.
On-the-Field Performance
Hyatt’s off-field dedication is mirrored by his impactful performances during games. Drafted in the third round out of Tennessee, his rookie season hinted at his potential, but this year, he is proving to be a vital asset. His latest feats include a pivotal 58-yard reception contributing to the Giants' narrow three-point victory over the Cardinals in Week 2 of the 2023 season.
The success didn't stop there. In Week 7, Hyatt recorded two catches for 75 yards in New York's 14-7 win over the Commanders. These moments underscore his growing importance to the team’s offensive strategy and his ability to deliver when it counts.
The crescendo of Hyatt’s season so far came in Week 12, where he notched his first 100-yard receiving game in the NFL. His exceptional gameplay was crucial in the Giants' tight victory over the Patriots, marking a significant milestone in his burgeoning career.
Setting Sights on the Playoffs
Beyond individual achievements, Hyatt remains focused on the broader team goals. As the Giants eye the playoffs, the unity and collective ambition of the team are at the forefront of 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," he asserts.
His blend of individual dedication and team-oriented mindset is precisely what the Giants need as they navigate the remainder of the season. With his continued improvement and substantial contributions on the field, Jalin Hyatt is poised not just to meet but to exceed expectations, playing a key role in the Giants' pursuit of playoff glory.