Breaking News: Giants Wide Receiver Aligns with Chiefs’ Trade Prototype Under GM Brett Veach.
The Kansas City Chiefs have managed to stay undefeated at 3-0 despite injuries, including losing key free agent Marquise Brown for the entire season and potentially Isiah Pacheco for a significant period. With limited options, they’re now depending on rookie Xavier Worthy and a veteran tight end in his 12th season. Although the Chiefs have other receivers like Justin Watson, Skyy Moore, JuJu Smith-Schuster, and Mecole Hardman, most are not under contract for 2025, leaving Moore, Worthy, and Rashee Rice as the future core. Given their preference for smaller, agile receivers, New York Giants’ Jalin Hyatt could be a good fit.
Who is Jalin Hyatt?
Hyatt, drafted by the Giants in the third round (79th overall) of the 2023 NFL Draft, had a stellar college career at Tennessee, winning the Biletnikoff Award in 2022. Known for his game-changing speed, he racked up over 1,750 yards and 19 touchdowns in his college career. However, his small size (6-0, 176 lbs) and limited route-running skills made some teams wary, which caused him to slip to the third round. At Tennessee, Hyatt’s role was heavily focused on deep routes, which contributed to his draft stock drop compared to players like Xavier Worthy.
Why Could Hyatt Be Available?
Despite an encouraging rookie season with 23 catches for 373 yards, Hyatt has yet to make a catch in 2024 and has only been targeted twice. He’s currently behind Malik Nabers, Wan’Dale Robinson, and Darius Slayton on the depth chart. Rumors have circulated that Hyatt is frustrated with his role and even requested a trade. The Giants, far from contending for a division title or Super Bowl, might consider trading him for draft capital, similar to how they moved Kadarius Toney to Kansas City.
How Would Hyatt Fit with the Chiefs?
Initially, Hyatt wouldn’t have made sense for the Chiefs, but with Marquise Brown out for the season, he could provide much-needed speed and a vertical threat. This could also allow Xavier Worthy to diversify his role in the offense. Hyatt wouldn’t interfere with Rashee Rice or Worthy’s slot duties, and his presence could enhance the screen game. More importantly, he could also be a cost-controlled option for the future.
Should the Chiefs Trade for Hyatt?
The decision comes down to cost. Given Hyatt was a third-round pick, the Chiefs could likely acquire him for a high-end day 3 pick. Kansas City has an extra third-round pick from the L’Jarius Sneed trade, allowing them some flexibility. While Hyatt may remain a deep-threat specialist, he could develop into a more complete route-runner in an offense built around speed and separation, making him a potential fit for both the present and future of the Chiefs’ offense.
