No team in the NFL scored fewer points than the New York Giants in Week 1. This disappointing level of offensive production could see head coach Brian Daboll turn to some new faces early in the 2025 NFL season in an attempt to get this unit moving in the right direction quickly before the season is lost.
Despite many in the fan base clamoring for first-round pick Jaxson Dart to take the field in Week 2, one NFL writer believes Giants rookie RB Cam Skattebo may be another name who could see more action sooner rather than later.
Cam Skattebo Could Be Part of ‘Youth Movement’ in Coming Weeks
Alex Kay of Bleacher Report believes big changes could be on the horizon for the New York Giants offense in the very near future, which is why he believes rookie RB Cam Skattebo could be in line for an expanded role.
The G-Men are a strong candidate to embrace a youth movement in the coming weeks, bringing Jaxson Dart in to relieve Wilson of his duties and giving Skattebo more work as he gets up to speed following an injury-plagued preseason,” wrote Kay. While Cam Skattebo didn’t help these concerning marks with his negative-three yards on two carries, the rookie brought a level of intensity and effort onto the field that his platoonmates largely lacked.
Much like the entirety of the Giants‘ offense in their 21-6 loss at the hands of the Washington Commanders on Sunday, Tyrone Tracy Jr. struggled in a leading role with just 10 carries for 24 yards while adding another 11 receiving yards on two receptions. It was so rough for the Giants‘ running backs against the Commanders that QB Russell Wilson led the team on the ground 44 yards on eight carries.
How Did Cam Skattebo Look in His NFL Debut?
Skattebo bested him by one yard in the receiving department (two catches for 12 yards) but failed to get anything going as a ball carrier with -3 yards on two carries.
Despite the lack of statistical production over his four total touches on Sunday, Kay saw plenty to be encouraged about regarding Skattebo’s NFL debut.
Although he only got onto the field for eight offensive snaps—well below the 50 starter Tyrone Tracy Jr. logged and two behind veteran backup Devin Singletary—and notched a pedestrian nine yards on four touches, Skattebo’s impact was undeniable,” Kay added. “The Arizona State product delivered a crushing blow on one of his pass protection assignments and valiantly battled multiple defenders before being brought down after catching a screen pass. These types of plays may not have put many fantasy points on the board, but it shouldn’t be long before Skattebo starts delivering in that area as well.”
Skattebo’s reckless abandon play style is likely to look great in the film room. A rookie running back doing the little things like battling in pass protection and fighting for every yard tends to be contagious to teammates, which could be the type of desperately needed spark to inspire an offense after an uninspiring performance.
Skattebo could certainly see his role expand in the coming weeks. Yet, if the offensive line doesn’t improve in short order, then it may be difficult for Skattebo, Tracy, or Devin Singletary to make a significant impact in 2025.
Giants ‘Youth Movement’ Could See Rookie RB Get More Involved