One of the big knocks against Tennessee wide receiver Jalin Hyatt coming out of last season was his size. He played at 175 pounds, which many NFL teams thought was too small.
Recognizing that, and knowing he had to bulk up for life at the pro level, Hyatt set out to gain weight this offseason.
After being selected by the New York Giants in Round 3 of the 2023 NFL draft, which came following a trade up, Hyatt revealed that he’s put on nearly 15 pounds and intends to add a few more.
“I played at around 175, 176,” Hyatt told reporters on Friday. “Now I’m around 188, 189, getting to where I want to get to my goal weight of 190.
“I want to play at 190 this year, something I’m now feeling comfortable around just gaining weight and being in the weight room and doing a lot of work after the pro day. I’m really pleased with where I am now as far as training and I can’t wait to go to the Giants, I can’t wait to move and get the show moving.”
At 190 with increased muscle tone and strength, many of the concerns over Hyatt will be alleviated. Combined with his blazing speed, Hyatt believes he can be a game-changer for the Giants.
“I feel like I’m probably the best deep threat receiver in the draft. I really do believe that, and Giants they really got a playmaker, they got a dynamic playmaker, an explosive playmaker — and that’s what I want to bring and add to the team,” Hyatt said. “I really believe the Giants added somebody who can change the game and I can’t wait to do that and show that.”
Hyatt also feels at home with the Giants already, which is something that first-round pick Deonte Banks also expressed following his selection.
“It was amazing. Never been to New York before in my life,” Hyatt said of his pre-draft visit with the Giants. “Came up, my first time in New York was to meet the Giants and I really loved the coaching staff up there. Love everything that they are doing. I just love what they are doing and what I can be a part of, so there are already great players there. I’m here to learn and develop and at the same time prove why the Giants drafted me. I’m ready to do what I have to do.”
General manager Joe Schoen and head coach Brian Daboll are really building something here.
