After disappointing season, what comes next
Jalin Hyatt, the former Tennessee Volunteers star and current New York Giants wide receiver, is entering the offseason with his future in question. After a rocky 2024 campaign, Hyatt addressed his status on Monday, offering guarded remarks about his role moving forward.
Hyatt, typically known for his upbeat and energetic demeanor, appeared subdued as players cleaned out their lockers for the final time. Asked about the return of general manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll for the 2025 season, he gave a measured response:
“Yeah, that’s good. That’s good for them,” said Hyatt.
Giants GM Joe Schoen, however, expressed faith in Hyatt’s potential despite his diminished role this season.
“Still got a lot of confidence in Jalin,” said Schoen. “It comes down to utilizing his skill set—he’s a vertical guy who can take the top off. When we bring a quarterback in here, hopefully, we can utilize it.”
Hyatt, who excelled as a deep threat at Tennessee and won the Biletnikoff Award in 2022, showed flashes of his potential during his rookie year. But his production in 2024 dwindled to just eight catches for 62 yards as he never truly became a relied upon part of the offense.
The wide receiver didn’t shy away from acknowledging the possibility of a trade.
“There are talks we have to have,” said Hyatt, hinting at discussions about his future with the team. “We’ll see.”
Hyatt’s comments suggest frustration after a season that saw him eclipsed by veterans like Darius Slayton and emerging talents like Malik Nabers and Wan’Dale Robinson. Slayton’s impending free agency could open up more opportunities for Hyatt, but uncertainty remains.
The Giants’ offensive struggles and inconsistency at quarterback in 2024 didn’t help Hyatt’s situation. Schoen’s remarks about “bringing a quarterback in” underscore the team’s need to stabilize the position to unlock Hyatt’s vertical-play potential.
As the offseason unfolds, it’s clear that both Hyatt and team have decisions to make.
