As the New York Giants edge closer to realizing their playoff aspirations, the emergence of second-year wide receiver Jalin Hyatt as a pivotal player cannot be overstated. Standing at 6 feet and weighing 185 pounds, Hyatt has shown remarkable dedication to his physical development this season, embracing a rigorous diet plan that includes Uncrustables—those frozen, individually wrapped peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
Hyatt's journey to secure his place as an indispensable part of the Giants' offense started with him being a third-round pick out of Tennessee. From day one, the young player understood the importance of matching his physicality with the demands of the NFL. "It's definitely hard for myself (to gain weight)," Hyatt revealed. "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."
Making an Impact on the Field
Luckily for the Giants, Hyatt's determination has translated to significant on-field performances. His prowess was on full display in Week 2 of the 2023 season when he made a critical 58-yard reception, a catch pivotal in securing a narrow three-point victory over the Cardinals. Such plays have become more frequent as Hyatt continues to refine his game and chemistry with his team.
His impact was further evident in a closely contested match in Week 7. Hyatt recorded two catches for 75 yards, contributing crucially to New York's 14-7 win over the Commanders. These performances underscore Hyatt’s capability of delivering under pressure, reinforcing his value to the Giants.
First 100-Yard Game
The pinnacle of Hyatt’s season so far came in Week 12 when he notched his first 100-yard receiving game in the NFL. This milestone performance was instrumental in the Giants' victory over the Patriots, showcasing Hyatt’s potential to become a consistent offensive threat. Achieving such a feat is a testament to his hard work and the strategic integration of his unique dietary plan. "PB&J's was one of my biggest things because you want to eat your full meal," Hyatt explained. "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."
High Expectations
Hyatt’s commitment to both his personal and team goals remains unwavering. "For me, I always set high expectations," he shared. "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."
This relentless drive to push boundaries has not only cemented Hyatt as a rising star but also as a vital cog in the Giants' playoff machinery. His focus, paired with exceptional on-field performances, serves as a beacon of hope for Giants fans eager to see their team make a deep playoff run. Each game, each catch, and each strategic Uncrustable is a step towards that ultimate goal, illustrating the fascinating blend of talent, hard work, and nutrition that defines Jalin Hyatt's journey in the NFL.