The New York Giants spent a notable amount of time during the pre-draft process investigating the running backs of the 2025 NFL Draft, particularly those defined by their play strength.
North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton’s contact balance got him picked in Round 1. Ohio State’s Quinshon Judkins didn’t have to wait much longer. Even so, the Giants were able to get their hands on one of the class’ more powerful backs in Round 4.
With the 105th pick, New York landed Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo, ending their pursuit of a complement for explosive running back Tyrone Tracy Jr.
Skattebo is short and stout with a surplus of power, littering his film and generating his highlights. During his first media availability, the Giants’ newest running back introduced fans to his elite physicality.
“Yeah, just growing up in a hard background and with an older brother that picked on me a little bit when I was younger,” Skattebo said, via team transcript. “He set me up for success, and my dad also being hard on me as a kid, understanding where I could take this football stuff in life, and he preached on me every day about it, and it’s now coming to light.”
Skattebo’s tackle-breaking ability earned him 293 carries for 1,711 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns in 2024. He forced missed tackles at a ludicrous rate, punished unfortunate defensive backs in his path, and was a workhorse for a team that threatened Texas in the College Football Playoffs.
That same toughness lends itself to an NFL role, whether it be in short-yardage situations or the red zone. The Giants struggled in both phases in 2024 (they struggled pretty much everywhere), but Skattebo’s raw power brings an element last year’s backfield lacked.
According to the Arizona State product, it has always been a part of his game.
“You can go back, watch some film from back in the day. It’s always been a very physical game for me,” he said. “Since the age of six years old, I’ve been doing the same thing. Throughout my life I’ve stuck with the path that I’ve put myself on, and it’s working out. I’m going to continue to do that because that’s what is bringing me success.”
Despite his Day 3 draft capital, fans can expect to see Skattebo make a rather instant impact. His contact balance stands out, and if he can keep the offense on schedule or finish its drives, New York will have trouble taking him off the field. The Giants hope playing Skattebo is as much about his production as it is his ability to forge an identity.
“Physicality is definitely contagious. If someone gets ran over, it hypes the other guys up and it gets them going. I’m going to continue to bring that and hopefully it feeds off on to my teammates.”