The New York Giants have been waiting on Jalin Hyatt to break out, ever since they traded up to draft him in the third round in 2023.
However, Hyatt has been waiting for the Giants to give him a worthwhile opportunity to break out, ever since his rookie season.
Now entering year three, it’s time for Hyatt to take that step forward — and Big Blue’s new quarterback believes he will.
Jalin Hyatt and Russell Wilson could start forming a duo at OTAs
During his introductory press conference, new Giants QB Russell Wilson told the media that he was excited about Hyatt, believing the 23-year-old had “untapped” potential.
Oct 13, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Cincinnati Bengals cornerback Cam Taylor-Britt (29) breaks up a pass intended for New York Giants wide receiver Jalin Hyatt (13) during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Credit: Brad Penner-Imagn Images
Hyatt flashed some promise as a rookie, totaling 23 receptions for 373 yards that season. However, he was phased out of the offense in 2024, recording just eight receptions for 62 yards on the campaign.
The Giants will kick off OTAs on Tuesday, giving Hyatt and Wilson an opportunity to connect on some live reps in practice.
Hyatt named a player to watch at OTAs
Matt Citak of Giants.com named Hyatt a player to watch at OTAs:
“Hyatt is the player that likely has the most to gain during these spring practices… Hyatt could be one of the biggest beneficiaries of Wilson’s famous moonball, which could be on full display as early as next week.”
East Rutherford, NJ -- June 11, 2024 -- Wide receiver, Jalin Hyatt at the NY Giants Mandatory Minicamp at their practice facility in East Rutherford, NJ.
Credit: Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com / USA TODAY NETWORK
In 2024, Wilson threw 50 passes 20+ yards downfield, completing 27 (54.0%) for 851 yards and eight touchdowns with two interceptions in only 11 starts.
OTAs will be the first of many forthcoming opportunities for Hyatt to receive some deep shots from Wilson. Perhaps they can spark a chemistry early in this process and maintain that throughout the season.
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