5 sneaky threats the Commanders should worry about at NY Giants in Week 7
By James Dudko
Commanders have to take away Jalin Hyatt's deep threat
Jalin Hyatt also emerged as a go-to target for Tyrod Taylor in Buffalo. While the third-round pick in the 2023 NFL Draft made a clutch catch underneath, his main threat remains his ability to get beyond the last line of defense.
Proof of Hyatt's talent for stretching this field came from this 43-yard grab on the perimeter, highlighted by Empire Sports Media's Alex Wilson.
Just a GORGEOUS throw by Tyrod Taylor and a SICK catch by Jalin Hyatt!!
— Alex Wilson (@AlexWilsonESM) October 16, 2023
Guess who was ineligible downfield... Evan Neal. pic.twitter.com/SBBlWK9cp7
Although the play was wiped out by penalty, Hyatt's deep speed is a concern for every defense he faces. Particularly for a Washington Commanders unit that's surrendered 68 first downs and 12 touchdowns through the air.
Whoever plays over Hyatt will need safety help. It's unlikely to be rookie cornerback Emmanuel Forbes after the Commanders' top pick in this year's draft did not play a single snap in the Week 6 road win at the Atlanta Falcons.
Danny Johnson got the nod with Forbes out of the lineup, and earned praise from defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio, per ESPN's John Keim.
Jack Del Rio on Danny Johnson: "He did very well... very dependable."
— John Keim (@john_keim) October 19, 2023
Johnson has the speed to stay with Hyatt, so he could be the matchup equalizer the Commanders need. On the other side, offensive coordinator Eric Bineiemy faces a different challenge trying to avoid some of the New York Giants' secret stars on defense.