New York Giants wide receiver Jalin Hyatt faces an uphill battle in camp, as he attempts to salvage his Big Blue career and make the team.
Hyatt was originally the Giants’ third-round selection in the 2023 NFL draft, but the receiver has struggled immensely over the last three seasons. Widely regarded as a steal in the third round following a stellar collegiate career at Tennessee, the route runner has ultimately failed to pan out thus far.
The former Volunteers star needs to find a path to the 53, and it's unlikely to come by simply playing wide receiver. Accordingly, Hyatt has reportedly been fielding kickoffs and serving as a punt gunner in practice, and could emerge as a weapon on special teams considering his speed.
Giants Kick Returner waves
Deonte Banks/Tyrone Tracy Braxton Berrios/Dante Miller Xavier Gipson/Eric Gray Damon Bankston/Devin Singletary Jalin Hyatt/Dante Miller
— Bobby Skinner (@BobbySkinner_) August 1, 2026
From Ryan Dunleavy of the New York Post:
Former third-round pick WR Jalin Hyatt, who is on the outside of the roster bubble, worked as a punt gunner – a change from years past when he was a returner during special-teams periods, and had a great rep where he used his speed to get wide and down the field to draw a penalty. He also caught a touchdown pass from Winston.
Hyatt has recorded 470 yards over the first three seasons of his NFL career. The receiver has yet to haul in a touchdown despite entering his fourth season at the professional level, but he appears to be emerging with a role elsewhere nonetheless.
This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Jalin Hyatt trying to salvage Giants career by playing special teams
