As the New York Giants march towards their playoff dreams, a bright spot in their offensive lineup has emerged in the form of second-year wide receiver Jalin Hyatt. Despite being only in his second season, Hyatt has quickly proven himself as an asset to the team, showcasing his talent and dedication on and off the field.
A Strategic Approach to Weight Gain
Standing at 6 feet tall and weighing in at 185 pounds, Hyatt has faced the challenge of maintaining and increasing his weight in preparation for the rigorous demands of the NFL. This is no easy task for the young athlete, as he readily admits, "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." To meet his weight goals, Hyatt has adopted a creative and determined approach.
One of his strategies includes incorporating Uncrustables—frozen, individually wrapped peanut butter and jelly sandwiches—into his diet. Hyatt elaborates on his nutrition plan, sharing, "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."
A Pivotal Playmaker
Hyatt's efforts off the field have translated into significant contributions on the field. Drafted in the third round out of Tennessee, Hyatt has quickly made his mark in the NFL. In the 2023 season alone, his performances have been nothing short of impressive. During the Giants' narrow three-point victory over the Cardinals in Week 2, Hyatt came through with a pivotal 58-yard reception. This catch was a game-changer, underscoring his ability to make big plays when it counts.
His remarkable play continued in Week 7 against the Commanders, where he recorded two catches for 75 yards, leading the Giants to a 14-7 victory. Hyatt's knack for delivering in crucial moments was once again on display in Week 12, when he notched his first 100-yard receiving game in the NFL. This milestone performance was instrumental in the Giants' tight victory over the Patriots, highlighting Hyatt's growth and potential as a top-tier receiver.
High Expectations and Team Goals
For Hyatt, individual success is deeply intertwined with team aspirations. "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 commitment to the team's success is evident in his dedication to his personal development and his ability to perform under pressure.
As the Giants continue their pursuit of playoff glory, Jalin Hyatt's contributions will undoubtedly be a key factor. Whether he's sprinting past defenders for a crucial catch or strategically gaining weight to withstand the physical demands of the NFL, Hyatt embodies the relentless drive and ambition that can propel a team to new heights. With his high expectations and unwavering focus, Hyatt's journey is one to watch, promising excitement and inspiration for Giants fans and football enthusiasts alike.