The New York Giants enter a make-or-break season for head coach Brian Daboll and GM Joe Schoen. They need to deliver, or they will both likely be searching for new jobs in 2026.
Rookie fourth-rounder Cam Skattebo is in New York to help the team’s run game. However, Tyrone Tracy Jr. remains the incumbent after a better-than-expected rookie campaign. Heading into the start of the season, where does the backfield stand for fantasy football?
Training Camp Developments Shape New York Giants’ Depth Chart
Cam Skattebo’s hamstring strain cost him valuable training camp reps and allowed Tyrone Tracy Jr. to distance himself as the clear RB1. The fourth-round rookie has been limited throughout August, missing critical practice time needed to learn the Giants’ system and build chemistry with QB Russell Wilson.
Meanwhile, Tracy has taken full advantage of his opportunity. After a strong rookie campaign where he averaged 13.1 fantasy points per game once he became the starter, Tracy has looked sharp in camp and preseason action. His experience in the system and proven NFL production give him a significant edge heading into Week 1.
The injury timing couldn’t have been worse for Skattebo’s immediate prospects. While he’s expected to be healthy for the opener, the missed reps have clearly impacted his standing on the depth chart.
Favorable Week 1 Matchup Creates Opportunity
The Giants open against a Washington Commanders defense that ranked 31st in rushing yards allowed per game last season, surrendering 143.1 yards on the ground. While not quite the worst run defense in the league, Washington’s inability to consistently stop the run creates an appealing matchup for New York’s ground game.
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Tracy’s speed and receiving ability should be particularly effective against Washington’s linebackers, who struggled in coverage throughout 2024. The Giants’ improved offensive line should also provide better running lanes than what Tracy faced as a rookie.
This matchup represents a prime opportunity for Tracy to start the season strong and further cement his hold on the starting job. A productive performance against Washington could make it even harder for Skattebo to earn significant touches early in the season.
Week 1 Roles and Fantasy Outlook
Tracy enters Week 1 as the clear RB1 and should handle the majority of early-down work and passing-down snaps. His pass-catching ability gives him a significant advantage in PPR formats, and he’s proven capable of handling a full workload when needed.
Devin Singletary figures to operate as the Giants’ RB2, likely taking some early-down carries in a complementary role. This pushes Skattebo into a limited change-of-pace role where he might see only a handful of snaps in Week 1.
For fantasy purposes, Tracy profiles as a solid RB2 play with upside if the Giants can keep the game close. His receiving work provides a safe floor, while his big-play ability offers legitimate ceiling potential against Washington’s vulnerable defense.
Tyrone Tracy Jr. does an exceptional job creating space to the outside by drawing the defenders close to his blockers blockers.
High IQ running. pic.twitter.com/0Q3vvmigqW
— Nick Falato (@nickfalato) August 17, 2025
Skattebo, while intriguing long-term, remains a bench stash in Week 1. His hamstring injury and missed camp time make it unlikely he sees significant touches in the opener, regardless of how the game unfolds.
Long-Term Considerations
While Tracy has the clear advantage for Week 1, Skattebo will likely have opportunities to earn a larger workload as the season progresses. The rookie’s college production and draft capital suggest the Giants view him as a significant part of their future.
However, fantasy football managers must acknowledge the possibility that Skattebo will never overtake Tracy as the primary back. Tracy’s youth, proven production, and established role give him considerable job security, especially if he performs well early in the season.
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Skattebo remains worth drafting and stashing, but patience will be required. His path to fantasy relevance likely depends on injury or Tracy struggling significantly, making him more of a handcuff play than an immediate contributor.
For Week 1, Tracy is the clear choice between the two Giants backs, offering both floor and ceiling at the RB2 position while Skattebo waits for his opportunity to emerge.
