In the lead-up to the 2025 NFL Draft, Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo has emerged as one of the more polarizing figures in this year’s class. Despite racking up 51 total touchdowns in college — including a standout senior season with nearly 300 carries and 21 scores — Skattebo’s draft stock has taken a noticeable dip.
NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah offered some insight into why many league executives aren’t as high on him as the media is.
Speaking on “The Athletic Football Show,” Jeremiah praised Skattebo’s hard-nosed style. “He is so thirsty for contact… it’s air to him,” Jeremiah said. “There’s just a violent nature to his play that I appreciate.” But despite his own admiration, Jeremiah admitted that NFL teams aren’t sold.
Why Cam Skattebo Is Dividing Scouts and Analysts
While fans and analysts praise Skattebo’s toughness and production, NFL front offices are more focused on athleticism and long-term viability. Jeremiah put it bluntly: “They’re just saying he has no juice. And it’s not sustainable to run the way he runs.”
That kind of evaluation puts Skattebo in a tough spot. He’s a 5-foot-10, 219-pound power back with a nose for the end zone, but teams question whether his physical style can hold up. He currently sits at No. 81 on the consensus big board — just outside the top 75.
Josh Norris summed up the divide in a tweet:
“@MoveTheSticks believes the league might be lower on Cam Skattebo than draft media. ‘They’re just saying he has no juice. And it’s not sustainable to run the way he runs.’ DJ is a fan. We all are fans.”
Concerns About Durability and Burst Impact Draft Stock
The two biggest red flags are durability and lack of burst. Jeremiah compared Skattebo to a worn-down version of James Conner, saying, “He’d be like James Conner if you left him in the dryer too long.” NFL teams worry his heavy-contact style could lead to injuries and a short pro shelf life.
ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. shared similar thoughts during an interview on Arizona Sports’ “Bickley and Marotta.”
“You want a warrior like that on your team,” Kiper said. “But he’s a hard one to project.” While he likes Skattebo’s mentality, Kiper also questioned if the Sun Devils back can be a featured player at the next level.
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Still, interest is there. Skattebo has already met with the Arizona Cardinals, Cleveland Browns and New York Giants on 30 visits, with more reportedly on the way. For teams looking for a tough, short-yardage option, he could be a Day 2 or early Day 3 steal — if they’re willing to bet on heart over traits.
