One notable player who joined the Tennessee Volunteers football team is wide receiver Jalin Hyatt. Hyatt, a standout recruit from Dutch Fork High School in Irmo, South Carolina, committed to Tennessee in 2020. His decision to join the Volunteers program was significant for head coach Josh Heupel as Hyatt’s speed and playmaking ability fit well into the up-tempo, high-powered offense that Heupel was looking to implement at Tennessee.
Hyatt quickly emerged as one of the most exciting players on the team, thanks to his impressive ability to stretch the field with his blazing speed. His agility and route-running skills made him a deep threat from the very start, and by his sophomore season in 2022, Hyatt became one of the best wide receivers in college football. That year, he had a breakout performance, earning the prestigious Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top wide receiver. Hyatt totaled over 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns, with several of those scores coming on long, explosive plays that showcased his ability to get behind opposing defenses. His remarkable performance helped elevate the Volunteers to new heights, including a top-10 ranking and a dramatic win over Alabama.
Hyatt’s decision to join the Tennessee Volunteers marked the beginning of a new chapter in both his career and the program’s resurgence under Heupel. His skills as a receiver, combined with Tennessee’s potent offensive system, made him a key player in their efforts to become competitive again in the SEC. Hyatt eventually declared for the NFL Draft following the 2022 season, a testament to his tremendous development and the role he played in putting Tennessee football back on the map.
