The New York Giants’ quarterback situation may dominate headlines, but Sunday Night Football reminded us that this team’s offense has another story brewing: rookie running back Cam Skattebo.
Drafted in 2025, Skattebo has quickly become a physical force in the Giants’ backfield, running aggressively, earning key touches, and demonstrating why he could be the team’s RB1 sooner rather than later.
How Is Cam Skattebo Performing for the Giants?
Skattebo entered the NFL with the reputation of a “bowling ball” runner. His collegiate career at Arizona State was marked by yards after contact, short-yardage dominance, and an ability to absorb hits while still moving the chains.
At first, the Giants saw Skattebo as a backup to Tyrone Tracy Jr., but he has already started to make his mark. He made his second diving touchdown of the season on Sunday Night Football against the Kansas City Chiefs, showcasing his strength and feistiness, which has swiftly elevated him to the position of locker room leader despite his inexperience.
CAM SKATTEBO TO THE HOUSE! 🏠
📺: NBC pic.twitter.com/rKjQpHeuP3
— New York Giants (@Giants) September 22, 2025
Of course, performances like that don’t go unnoticed, especially from analysts with a penchant for stirring debate.
Skip Bayless Points to Jerry Jones After Skattebo’s Breakout
Skip Bayless, a longtime Cowboys fan and outspoken NFL commentator, took to X following the touchdown to take a jab at Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones.
“I’ll say it again: I wanted Jerry to draft Skattebo. Nope. Now look at him,” Bayless tweeted.
I’ll say it again: I wanted Jerry to draft Skattebo. Nope. Now look at him.
— Skip Bayless (@RealSkipBayless) September 22, 2025
The comment referenced early 2025 draft chatter linking Skattebo to the Cowboys. Many scouts, including Bucky Brooks, had suggested he would be a perfect fit in Dallas, blending power and versatility to complement their passing game.
Instead, New York scooped him up, and Sunday’s performance showed why he was worth the hype.
Is Skattebo on His Way to Becoming RB1?
Skattebo also has a connection to AT&T Stadium from his college days, where he helped lead Arizona State to its first Big 12 title in 2024. That history adds some poetic justice; he’s now showing Cowboys fans what they missed, but in the Big Apple.
Despite being a rookie, he plays with the confidence and leadership of a seasoned pro. He runs determinedly and gives the Giants’ offense the spark it desperately needs.
While veteran quarterback Russell Wilson is still leading the offense, Skattebo is emerging as a playmaker who can change the game independently. Fans saw it, teammates saw it, and analysts like Bayless can’t help but notice it too.
For the Giants, it’s simple: they have a rookie who’s already making a statement. And if Sunday’s game is any indication, Skattebo’s impact will only grow as the season progresses. One thing is clear: he’s not just a rookie; he’s quickly becoming a leader in New York’s backfield.
