New York Giants wide receiver Jalin Hyatt has yet to come through with a breakout campaign, and he now enters the most crucial season of his career.

After showing some flashes during his rookie campaign in 2023, posting 23 receptions for 311 yards, Hyatt took a major step back in Year 2. The Tennessee product was a non-factor during his second season, recording just eight receptions for 62 yards.

Advertisement

Hoping to connect with new quarterback Russell Wilson, who is known for his deep ball, Garrett Podell of CBS Sports named Hyatt as a potential under-the-radar star for the 2025 season.

Things could be different for Hyatt in Year 3 though with the Giants moving on from Daniel Jones and bringing in three quarterbacks who love to throw deep: 10-time Pro Bowler Russell Wilson, one-time Pro Bowl quarterback Jameis Winston and 2025 25th overall pick Jaxson Dart, who led college football in yards per pass attempt (10.8) in 2024. Yes, OTAs are noncontact, but Hyatt appears to be building a nice early rapport with Wilson, who is slated to begin 2025 as the Giants starting quarterback. If New York can actually find consistency throwing deep now that Jones is gone, then perhaps Hyatt could take a major leap.

Hyatt's inability to crack the starting lineup behind Malik Nabers, Darius Slayton, and Wan'Dale Robinson has limited his chances to break out. All three will be back to lead the wide receiver room again while Hyatt fights for the No. 4 spot on the depth chart.

The Giants have lacked the ability to connect on the deep ball with Daniel Jones under center. However, both Wilson and Jameis Winston have been known for their abilities to make plays down the field, which could allow Hyatt to finally make an impact.

Even though Hyatt still has two more seasons left on his rookie contract, he's likely entering the campaign that will decide the rest of his NFL career.

This article originally appeared on Giants Wire: Giants' Jalin Hyatt named potential under-the-radar star