Jalin Hyatt, the standout wide receiver from the University of Tennessee, has joined the New York Giants, bringing his explosive talent to the NFL.
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Who is Jalin Hyatt?
Jalin Hyatt, the name that echoed through the college football world in 2022, has now found a new home in the National Football League (NFL) with the New York Giants. This dynamic wide receiver, hailing from Irmo, South Carolina, has a story of perseverance and excellence that’s captured the hearts of football fans.
Born on September 25, 2001, Hyatt’s journey to NFL stardom started in the suburbs of Columbia. He was raised by parents deeply rooted in sports and education, and his younger brother Devin followed in his athletic footsteps by playing football for the Arizona Wildcats.
Hyatt’s high school career at Dutch Fork High School in Irmo was nothing short of remarkable. He shattered records with 3,624 career receiving yards and an astounding 57 receiving touchdowns. His efforts led Dutch Fork to back-to-back state championships in 2018 and 2019, with Hyatt’s overtime game-winning catches becoming the stuff of legend.
Despite his high school success, Hyatt faced skepticism from in-state college programs Clemson and South Carolina due to concerns about his size. At the time, he weighed only 153 pounds, prompting one coach to humorously suggest he needed more peanut butter.
Hyatt initially committed to Virginia Tech but later switched his allegiance to the University of Tennessee under the guidance of head coach Jeremy Pruitt. This decision proved pivotal as Hyatt’s star began to rise in college football.
In his freshman season in 2020, Hyatt made an impact, recording his first college reception and touchdown against Missouri and Alabama, respectively. He closed the season with 20 receptions for 276 yards and two touchdowns, showing a glimpse of his potential.
The following year was marked by injuries and limited playing time, but Hyatt returned in 2022 with renewed strength and confidence. He delivered a jaw-dropping performance against Alabama, amassing 207 receiving yards and an incredible five touchdowns, securing a historic win for the Volunteers.
Hyatt’s 2022 season stats are eye-popping: 67 catches, 1,267 yards, and a remarkable 15 touchdowns. He led the SEC in receiving yards and receiving touchdowns, earning him the prestigious Fred Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s best receiver and unanimous All-American status.
His journey from a small-framed high school prospect to a college football sensation culminated with the NFL Draft. Hyatt’s impressive pre-draft measurements and skill set garnered the attention of the New York Giants, who selected him in the third round as the 73rd overall pick.
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On May 15, 2023, Hyatt signed his rookie contract with the Giants, marking the beginning of a new chapter in his football career. NFL fans eagerly anticipate witnessing his explosive speed and remarkable catching ability on the professional stage.