Jalin Hyatt steps up for Giants after Slayton injury vs. Commanders

In preparation for their Week 2 game against the Commanders, the New York Giants are facing a potential setback with Darius Slayton in concussion protocol. Head coach Brian Daboll indicated that if Slayton is unable to play, Jalin Hyatt is likely to step into a more prominent role. Despite being a third-round draft pick and a former standout at Tennessee, Hyatt had limited involvement in the Giants' season opener against the Vikings, where he played only 16 snaps and was targeted once, resulting in a drop. This lack of action has raised questions about his readiness to contribute significantly to the team. Hyatt's performance during his rookie season was underwhelming, with just 23 receptions for 373 yards and no touchdowns. Daboll previously categorized him as the team's third or fourth receiver, with Slayton receiving the majority of snaps. However, Hyatt's skill set aligns closely with Slayton's, particularly as a speedy downfield threat, which could make him a suitable replacement if Slayton is sidelined. In addition to Slayton's situation, the Giants are also dealing with injuries to other players, including cornerback Nick McCloud and linebacker Darius Muasau. Micah McFadden, who had been limited due to a groin injury, returned to full participation in practice, adding depth to the linebacker position. As the team prepares for the upcoming game, Daboll expressed confidence in Hyatt's abilities, emphasizing the importance of trust in his players. The Giants are looking to bounce back from their disappointing loss to the Vikings and hope to leverage Hyatt's potential to enhance their offensive performance against the Commanders.