New York Giants rookie running back Cam Skattebo has put the NFL on notice. In showcasing his big-play, dual threat ability in Sunday night’s 22-9 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, the Arizona State product has a big opportunity ahead of him.
When it comes to NFL rookie running backs, names like Ashton Jeanty, Omarion Hampton and TreVeyon Henderson were the 2025 NFL Draft picks expected to make a quick impact in the NFL.
With those running backs yet to get rolling, Skattebo is starting to shine as a mid-round pick and possibly the steal of the draft.
From Sun Devils darling to Big Apple star?
Behind Jeanty, Skattebo was the most talked about running back during the 2024 college football season, but because he didn’t possess the speed or flash of running backs, he wasn’t high on the draft big board. Well, he should’ve been after rushing for 1,711 yards at Arizona State during his final season. Skattebo also had 338 receiving yards in that season, a season in which he did everything offensively for the Sun Devils.
That ability was all on display Sunday night in primetime. The 2025 NFL Draft fourth round pick took his opportunity to shine and show just why he should’ve been drafted in the higher rounds with 121 total yards against the Chiefs. Skattebo rushed for 60 yards and a touchdown on 10 carries and caught six passes for 61 yards.
It is that dual threat production Sun Devil fans are used to, and production Giants fans will get use to as it’s just the beginning for this rookie.
Tyrone Tracy injury opens bigger opportunity for Skattebo
It’s just the beginning, because a bigger role has opened for Skattebo due to the Tyrone Tracy injury. The second year running back suffered a dislocated shoulder during the game against the Chiefs and is expected to miss a lot of time. That will launch Skattebo in the spotlight even more for a Giants team yet to win a game.
With the type of runs he displayed below; there’s a chance the Arizona State prospect takes over the lead back role for the Giants. He looks ready for the spotlight and opportunity. Giants head coach Brian Daboll lauded Skattebo’s competitive nature following the game.
CAM SKATTEBO TO THE HOUSE! 🏠
— New York Giants (@Giants) September 22, 2025
📺: NBC pic.twitter.com/rKjQpHeuP3
"Cam is a tough competitor," Daboll said. "Thought he ran hard and did a good job in the passing gaming when he got the ball in his hands. He's a good young player."
Quinshon Judkins ready to shine for the Cleveland Browns
Another rookie running back ready to take the NFL by storm is Cleveland Browns second-round pick Quinshon Judkins. After a slow start to his NFL career due to off-the-field legal troubles, the former Ohio State star has averaged 5.5 yards per carry in his two games this season.
After a strong debut, Judkins was a factor in the Browns’ 13-10 upset win over the Green Bay Packers with 94 rushing yards on 18 attempts and a rushing touchdown in the game. Along with fellow rookie running back Dylan Sampson, Judkins is giving the Browns’ offense some juice with his powerful running style and explosive ability. Two attributes that made him one of the top running backs off the board.
It's good to see him showcasing that ability on the field and don’t be surprised if he is competing with Skattebo as the top rookie running back when the season is over.