The New York Giants are holding former Tennessee Vols WR Jalin Hyatt hostage and they should be ashamed

Hyatt reported to OTAs and training camp this past summer with a positive mindset, clearly eager to take a big step forward this season.

“Obviously I didn’t have a lot of opportunities last year,” said Hyatt in June. “But I felt like I didn’t make most of my opportunities when I did have them. And that’s how this game goes — you take advantage of the opportunities, [then] you get more. And that’s really my mindset going into year three."

Hyatt also bulked up during the offseason.

"I played at like 171 last year. I’m at about 194 or 195 now. I’m telling you, that’s what darkness does to you.” 

The New York Giants are holding Jalin Hyatt hostage

In late August, The New York Post’s Ryan Dunleavy reported that multiple teams had called the Giants to inquire about trading for Hyatt. The Giants, however, declined to engage in any trade discussions.

I'm not sure why the Giants wouldn't entertain the idea of trading Hyatt, because it's clear after Week 1 that their plan is to keep the former Vol buried on the bench.

Hyatt received zero snaps in the Giants' Week 1 loss to the Washington Commanders.

At this point, I think it's fair to wonder if the Giants are trying to tank Hyatt's career.

I mean, the Giants weren't good offensively last season -- and they were terrible offensively in Week 1 against the Commanders -- yet they just continue to let Hyatt wither away on the bench.

And look, it's not that I'm saying that Hyatt is the answer to the Giants' problems -- I think New York has a lot of problems that need to be fixed offensively, starting with the coaching. But why not at least give Hyatt a shot? The Giants, after all, traded up for the former Vol in the 2023 NFL Draft. And he found moderate success as a rookie (23 receptions for 373 yards despite a disastrous quarterback and offensive line situation). Then poof -- it's like they forgot he exists.

It's not like Hyatt is being blocked by a superstar, either. Outside of Malik Nabers, the Giants' wide receiver talent is meh at best.

Ultimately, Hyatt just wants to play. He just wants a shot to prove he can be a productive NFL wide receiver.

The Giants, meanwhile, appear to be hell bent on not letting that happen.

It's unfortunate for Hyatt. He's not in a position where he can demand a trade. Instead, he's completely at the mercy of a franchise that looks more incompetent by the week.

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