The Jalin Hyatt experiment with the New York Giants is starting to feel like a story of mismatched expectations. When the Giants traded up in the third round of the 2023 NFL Draft to snag the Biletnikoff Award winner out of Tennessee, it looked like they’d landed a game-changing deep threat.
Fast forward two seasons and Hyatt is on the outside looking in—struggling to find meaningful playing time in an offense that desperately needs playmakers.
Hyatt’s lack of impact isn’t lost on general manager Joe Schoen, who, even after a dismal 3-14 season, remains steadfast in his belief in the receiver’s potential. “Still got a lot of confidence in Jalin,” Schoen told CBS Sports’ Madelyn Burke. “It’s something that comes down to his skill set, 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.”
#Giants GM Joe Schoen on WR Jalin Hyatt: “Still got a lot of confidence in Jalin, something that comes down to his skill set, 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.”
— Madelyn Burke (@MadelynBurke) January 6, 2025
Despite Schoen’s vote of confidence, Hyatt’s limited role on the field paints a different picture. Head coach Brian Daboll has leaned heavily on rookie standout Malik Nabers, dependable veteran Darius Slayton, and versatile slot receiver Wan’Dale Robinson. For Hyatt, that's translated to a mere eight catches for 62 yards in 2024—a stark contrast to the explosive playmaker he was at Tennessee.
Is Jalin Hyatt just a square peg in Brian Daboll’s offense?
Hyatt’s struggles can’t be entirely pinned on the player. The Giants’ offense has been a trainwreck for two straight seasons, cycling through underwhelming quarterback play and inconsistent schemes. But Daboll’s reluctance to feature Hyatt more prominently speaks volumes about where he stands in the coach’s pecking order.
The problem may be that Hyatt’s game doesn’t align with Daboll’s offensive vision. While Schoen drafted him for his ability to stretch defenses vertically, Daboll seems to prioritize receivers who excel in precision routes and reliability—traits embodied by players like Nabers and Slayton.
For Hyatt, a player who’s still refining his route-running and ability to beat press coverage, the mismatch has left him stuck on the sidelines.
It’s hard to ignore the contrast between Schoen’s glowing remarks and Daboll’s actions. The GM clearly believes Hyatt is a valuable asset whose untapped potential can still be harnessed. Meanwhile, Daboll’s reliance on other receivers suggests he doesn’t see Hyatt as a key piece of the offense right now. That disconnect could be a microcosm of a larger issue: a lack of alignment between the front office and coaching staff about how to utilize personnel effectively.
As the Giants prepare for a pivotal offseason, Hyatt’s future in New York feels uncertain. His non-committal comments after the season—"We have some talks we have to have"—hint at frustration and a desire for clarity. And with the Giants almost certain to draft a rookie quarterback, Schoen and Daboll must decide whether Hyatt fits into their long-term plans or if it’s time to cut bait.
There’s no question Hyatt’s skillset still holds value. His ability to take the top off a defense is a rare commodity in the NFL, and the right quarterback could unlock his potential. But if the Giants continue to prioritize other receivers and fail to develop a scheme that plays to Hyatt’s strengths, they risk squandering his talent.
For now, Schoen’s belief in Hyatt remains unwavering, but belief alone won’t be enough. If Daboll and the coaching staff don’t buy in, Hyatt’s tenure in New York could be over before it ever truly begins. The Giants are on the clock—not just in the draft but in deciding whether Hyatt will be part of their future or simply a footnote in a forgettable season.
