Heading into his third season, Hyatt still believes the Giants can get things fixed
The New York Giants’ 2024 season was a brutal one from start to finish. Fans, looking for a glimmer of hope, set their sights on securing the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft but the Giants pulled off a Week 17 win, pushing them out of that top draft spot.
Jalin Hyatt, who joined The Jake Asman Show ahead of Super Bowl LIX, was honest about the struggles of the past season.
Hyatt acknowledged that fans were upset about the loss of the top draft pick, but he made it clear that players aren’t focused on draft order.
“I understand what they’re mad at,” Hyatt said. “Obviously, you want to have the first or second pick so you can choose who you want. But the problem is, we’re in the league. We never go out there trying to lose games. We get paid. Not only that, we’re all trying to win.”
That sentiment is a reminder that professional athletes, no matter how tough a season is, are still focused on doing their job to the best of their abilities.
“What’s so hard about it is, when you’re losing so many games, you don’t want to lose again,” he continued. “That feeling is not a good feeling. … It’s tough going to that next week.”
Hyatt praised Barkley and admitted he is rooting for him.
“I’m definitely cheering for him,” Hyatt admitted. “Only Saquon, though. Just because we play the Eagles twice a year.” Hyatt was clear that while he’s happy for Barkley’s success, his loyalty to the Giants means he can’t cheer for their division rivals outright.
“I have a lot of respect for [Barkley] because of what he did for me—helping me, being a leader in the locker room, and teaching me how the NFL works,” Hyatt said. Despite the Eagles being their competition, Hyatt wished his former teammate all the best. “I’m so proud of what he’s done so far. I really do wish him the best.”
After a disappointing season in which he caught just eight passes, Hyatt is determined to improve. One thing that he emphasized was his desire for more versatility in his role.
“I want to be moved around more,” Hyatt said, reflecting on his experiences in college where he was frequently shifted around to different positions on the field. “Just keep me on the outside, but also let me move around,” he explained. “When I feel like I’m moving around, I feel more confident.”
Hyatt admitted, though, that he has “gotta be more consistent” in his play.
“I still have a lot of faith in my team,” he said. “I really believe we have great players, and we’re going to get better.
“We’re all trying to win.”
