Jalin Hyatt wants to make one thing clear: he has no intention of leaving the New York Giants. Despite reports claiming the second-year wide receiver asked for a trade, Hyatt firmly denies these rumors. After getting only one target through the Giants’ first two games of the 2024 season, Hyatt has found himself at the center of speculation, but he insists he’s committed to the team.
The trade rumors were initially reported by ESPN’s Jordan Raanan on Friday, September 20, who stated that Hyatt expressed frustration over his lack of usage, even suggesting he would request a trade if things didn’t improve. Raanan wrote, “Unhappy with the situation, Hyatt said during practice that if the Giants weren’t going to use him, they should trade him, multiple team sources told ESPN.”
However, Hyatt wasted no time in addressing the rumors. When asked about the report, the speedy receiver was adamant it wasn’t true: “I feel like it’s a fake story. I feel like somebody is out to get me or something. I didn’t say anything about not wanting to be here,” Hyatt told reporters. He also added, “I love it here,” emphasizing his desire to remain a Giant.
"I feel like it's a fake story. I feel like somebody is out to get me or something. I didn't say anything about not wanting to be here. I love it here."
– Jalin Hyatt pic.twitter.com/zAqai4gK4i
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) September 20, 2024
Giants Need Hyatt’s Speed on Offense
While Hyatt has denied any desire to be traded, the underlying issue remains—the Giants’ lack of involvement for their most dangerous deep threat. Head coach Brian Daboll has preached patience regarding getting Hyatt the ball, but the Giants’ struggling offense desperately needs a spark. Hyatt’s game-breaking speed is something the Giants’ offense has sorely lacked, and Daboll must find a way to incorporate him more effectively.
Daboll’s patience may not be enough for long, especially as quarterback Daniel Jones continues to struggle with consistency. As Dan Duggan of The Athletic pointed out, the Giants need to take more deep shots, particularly to Hyatt: “I’d be shocked if there’s not a deep shot in the game plan for Hyatt on Sunday.”
The Giants drafted Hyatt for his ability to stretch defenses, and there’s no doubt his speed should be utilized more, particularly in a passing attack that has looked stagnant at times.
I think that's what you'll see eventually. I'd be shocked if there's not a deep shot in the game plan for Hyatt on Sunday. It's only been two games. The offense couldn't function against Minnesota and they threw it to Nabers (effectively) every play against Washington. Hyatt will… https://t.co/Dcagxkh8Gk
— Dan Duggan (@DDuggan21) September 20, 2024
Trade Rumors Won’t Go Away
Despite Hyatt’s denial, Raanan has stood by his reporting. He responded to backlash with confidence: “Everything I’ve said on this is 100%. Take it to the bank.”
Whether or not Hyatt truly asked for a trade may ultimately be irrelevant. What’s clear is that the longer the Giants go without involving their talented receiver, the more speculation will grow about his future with the team. Hyatt’s ability to take the top off defenses will be enticing to teams in need of a playmaker, making him a potential trade target if things don’t change.
You guys are funny. He left with his eye black on and w/o showering because he wasn’t disappointed? Makes sense.
Everything I’ve said on this is 100%. Take it to the bank. https://t.co/lR3dryBQ8j
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) September 21, 2024
For now, both sides are holding firm—Hyatt remains adamant about staying with the Giants, while Raanan stands by his reporting. What happens next will depend on how head coach Brian Daboll handles Hyatt’s playing time moving forward. As the Giants look to turn their season around, getting the ball into Hyatt’s hands could be a critical part of the solution.
With the pressure mounting, how Daboll manages this situation may not only impact Hyatt’s future but also his own standing as the Giants’ head coach.
Jalin Hyatt denies a report that he said if he wasn't going to be used by the Giants, they should trade him:
"That's false. I love being here." pic.twitter.com/5jPIxh0Zj1
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) September 20, 2024
