The Giants’ preseason plans hit a snag this week when their most intriguing rookie started working on the sidelines instead of with the main squad. Cam Skattebo, the do-everything running back who captivated fans during college football’s biggest stage, is nursing a hamstring injury that threatens to keep him out of Saturday’s preseason matchup. For a player fighting to prove himself in his first NFL camp, the timing couldn’t be worse.
Will Cam Skattebo Play Against the Buffalo Bills?
The New York Giants’ running back, Skattebo, has been one of the more interesting storylines of the 2025 NFL preseason. The do-everything college phenom immediately impacted training camp with his intensity, self-criticism, humble attitude, and intense running style. However, he’s been dealing with a hamstring injury that’s limited his participation in practice over the last couple of weeks.
Skattebo was seen at practice on Thursday but was working on a side field away from the main action. At this point, all signs are pointing to him not taking the field against the Bills.
Cam Skattebo is working off to the side at Giants camp today pic.twitter.com/gHVtK99Yn5
— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) August 7, 2025
Skattebo was one of college football’s most electric running backs in 2024. Built like a bowling ball with legs and the agility of a ballet dancer, he carried the ball 293 times for 1,711 yards and 21 touchdowns while adding another three receiving touchdowns in his final year with Arizona State. When you throw in his 605 receiving yards, he racked up an impressive 2,316 all-purpose yards.
But his performance against the Texas Longhorns in the 2024 College Football Playoff in the Peach Bowl gave him a national profile. He ran 30 times for 143 yards and two touchdowns and added eight receptions for 99 yards. He also had a 42-yard touchdown pass on a trick play that showcased his versatility.
The Giants drafted Skattebo, 5’9″, 219 lbs, in the fourth round of the 2025 draft. He quickly became a favorite among teammates and built a quick rapport with fellow rookie quarterback Jaxson Dart.
“Skat’s a baller, man. Skat’s a baller,” Dart said. “He’s a guy that’s a culture changer. He’s tough. Look at him. Come right here. Look at him.”
— PEP (@pahrduve) May 19, 2025
How Does Skattebo’s Injury Impact His Roster Chances?
While Skattebo likely won’t play on Saturday, Dart probably will. Giants head coach Brian Daboll is reluctant to play starters, and he’ll likely want to get a long look at Dart, whom he and Giants GM Joe Schoen traded up into the first round to draft out of Ole Miss.
If he were healthy, he’d likely have a chance to showcase his skills and prove himself in game situations against NFL-level competition. Instead, he’ll have to continue working on getting healthy with an injury that can prove tricky and volatile if not handled properly.
Hamstring injuries require careful management to avoid setbacks that could sideline players for extended periods. The Giants square off against the Bills on Saturday at Highmark Stadium in Orchard Park, NY.
