Tennessee football: 10 Vols who should have breakout seasons in 2022
Scouting Report. Pick Analysis. Junior. 1. Wide receiver. Jalin Hyatt. player. 839
6’0″ 180 pounds
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You can’t get more obvious than this one. Jalin Hyatt was the backup slot receiver for Tennessee football last year to Velus Jones Jr., and while that position is supposed to have open competition this year, all the hype behind Hyatt suggests it isn’t even a battle anymore. It appears locked up.
To be fair, last year, there was a ton of talk surrounding Hyatt, but he couldn’t beat out Jones in the slot or JaVonta Payton as the No. 2 wideout. His frame makes him an unlikely No. 1 wideout. However, he was touted multiple times in spring ball, fall camp and even at SEC Media Days. His potential is an open secret too, though, so the job should be his.
Jimmy Calloway will likely be his backup, and Walker Merrill could move over there if needed. We mentioned Jimmy Holiday and Squirrel White, and Holiday is on this list for special teams. Hyatt, though, is the major weapon in the slot, and that is why he’s destined to break out.
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As a backup the past two years for Tennessee football, Hyatt has caught at least 20 passes for at least 200 yards each season, and he’s scored two touchdowns both times. All of that production should triple this year, and he should turn into an All-SEC caliber player. He’s being treated like a returning starter, which is why he’s the top breakout candidate.