The rookie everyone wants to see is stuck on the sideline. Cam Skattebo has captured imaginations since arriving from Arizona State. Still, his hamstring injury means Giants fans will have to wait a little longer to witness what could be the most exciting addition to their backfield in years.
Why Are the Giants Being So Cautious With Cam Skattebo?
The New York Giants are in preseason action on Saturday, but rookie running back Cam Skattebo’s debut will likely have to wait. The former Arizona State standout continues to be sidelined with a hamstring injury, leaving his status uncertain heading into Week 2 of the preseason.
Skattebo missed last week’s opener against the Buffalo Bills and did not participate in either of the Giants’ joint practices with the Jets on Aug. 12 and 13. Giants coach Brian Daboll explained his approach following the Bills game:
“Everyone that didn’t play, didn’t play because the medical team or the doctors told me that it’s probably a good idea they don’t play this game.”
General manager Joe Schoen echoed that sentiment earlier this week, revealing the organization’s protective stance toward their prized rookie.
“[Skattebo] was doing a good job when he was out there early on,” Schoen said. “He’s the type of guy you have to protect from himself. All these guys, we’re trying to figure them out and they’re trying to get out here and play and sometimes push themselves back a little bit soon.”
That cautious approach makes sense given what Skattebo brings to the table. The 23-year-old has been a camp favorite, praised for his bruising, physical style and versatility as both a runner and receiver. He entered the NFL after a record-setting 2024 season at Arizona State, where he posted 1,711 rushing yards and 21 total touchdowns and became the first player in school history to surpass 2,000 scrimmage yards in a single season.
“How many snaps in the NFL have you seen me play? Zero. I’ve proved nothing.”
Cam Skattebo is asked about keeping the chip on his shoulder heading into his NFL career: pic.twitter.com/EA5ZmAg1y0
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) May 9, 2025
Skattebo remains listed as day-to-day. If he doesn’t return to practice soon, he could also be at risk of missing the Giants’ preseason finale against the New England Patriots on Aug. 21. That timeline adds urgency to his recovery, as rookies trying to make their mark have limited preseason opportunities.
The former Sun Devil has already drawn national attention as one of the Giants’ potential X-factors this season, with projections that he could complement veteran Devin Singletary and running back Tyrone Tracy Jr. in a revamped backfield.
Who Will Step Up While Skattebo Recovers?
While the Giants wait for Skattebo’s return, the running back competition is heating up behind him. Dante “Turbo” Miller shone against Buffalo with seven receptions for 80 yards and another 22 on the ground, staking a claim to a roster spot. His performance showcased the depth the Giants have been building at the position.
The team also signed veteran Jonathan Ward for additional depth, while Eric Gray remains on the PUP list. These moves demonstrate how seriously the organization takes backfield renovation, ensuring they have options while their top rookie prospect heals.
The Jets-Giants matchup provides more opportunities for Tracy Jr., Singletary and Miller to solidify their roles in the rotation. Each carry will be evaluated closely as the coaching staff determines how to best utilize their stable of running backs once everyone is healthy.
Fans hoping to glimpse Skattebo will likely need to be patient as the Giants prioritize his long-term health. All eyes remain on whether Skattebo can log practice reps next week and position himself for a potential preseason finale appearance. Until then, his official NFL debut is on hold.
