Giants QB Daniel Jones addresses former Tennessee WR Jalin Hyatt's lack of playing time so far in 2024

Former Tennessee Vols wide receiver Jalin Hyatt hasn't made much of an on-field impact for the New York Giants this season.

But that's only because Hyatt hasn't had the opportunity to make an impact.

Hyatt, a third round selection by the Giants in the 2023 NFL Draft, has zero catches in four games this season. The former Vol has been targeted just three times and he's only played 51 total snaps.

New York has opted to play Darius Slayton ahead of Hyatt, which has limited the South Carolina native's opportunities.

Giants quarterback Daniel Jones was asked this week about Hyatt's lack of playing time so far in 2024. The veteran signal-caller praised Hyatt for his maturity despite not receiving much playing time through the first month of the season. Jones also made it clear that he has full confidence in Hyatt.

"I think Jalin's handled it well," said Jones . "He's a pro, he's a mature guy. You've seen it out at practice. He's continued to show up and make a lot of plays. I know it's frustrating for a guy not to get to those opportunities on a Sunday, but I thought he's handled it well. I have a ton of confidence in him out there making plays, changing the game with his speed and the ability to get behind the defense. I know he'll be ready to go."

Hyatt could be in line to receive more opportunities in the Giants' Week 5 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks.

Rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers, who has been New York's top pass catcher so far this season, is still in the early stages of the concussion protocol (Nabers suffered a concussion in the Giants' loss to the Dallas Cowboys in Week 4). If Nabers is unable to play against Seattle, Hyatt will see more snaps for the Giants.

Related: How Arkansas will have the same unique advantage against Tennessee that Oklahoma had against the Vols