Running back Cam Skattebo is expected to return to a shared role in the New York Giants’ backfield against the Houston Texans after spending a significant stretch of recent games on the bench. Head coach John Harbaugh confirmed Friday that the second-year player is on track to reclaim his spot in the team’s offensive rotation alongside Tyrone Tracy Jr., following a week of practice dedicated to correcting fundamental errors.
Skattebo’s playing time vanished entirely during a 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints, where he did not record a single carry. That benching followed a downward trend in his workload triggered by a critical fumble in overtime during a Week 5 tie against the Washington Commanders. That turnover marked his fifth lost fumble across just 13 career NFL games, forcing coaching staff intervention and a stark re-evaluation by the player himself.
I think I got taught a lesson,
Skattebo said. I had to step back and look at it and figure out why I was doing the things I was doing, what was happening. Came to practice, corrected those things, worked on them. Ready to go back out there and play ball.
Backfield Shifts Following Najee Harris Departure
The timing of Skattebo’s reintegration coincides with major personnel shifts in the Giants’ running back room. New York released veteran running back Najee Harris on Tuesday, leaving the team to lean on a younger core. Harbaugh emphasized that Skattebo remained central to the franchise’s overarching season plans despite his recent benching and ball-security struggles.
He was always going to be a big part of our season,
Harbaugh said. And he had a heck of a week of practice; all the backs did.
ESPN reporter Jordan Raanan noted that Skattebo will likely divide his rushing attempts with Tyrone Tracy Jr. when the Giants face the Texans. Devin Singletary remains available as a third option out of the backfield, giving offensive coordinators multiple bodies to lean on as they attempt to stabilize the running game following the loss to New Orleans.
Frequently Asked Questions About Skattebo’s Return
Why did the Giants reduce Cam Skattebo’s playing time?
Coaches limited Skattebo’s snaps and eventually benched him after he lost a fumble in overtime against the Washington Commanders. That turnover was his fifth lost fumble in 13 career NFL appearances.
How will New York distribute carries against Houston?
Head coach John Harbaugh and team reports indicate that Skattebo is expected to split rushing duties with Tyrone Tracy Jr., with Devin Singletary also standing by as a viable backfield option.
What prompted the opening in the Giants running back room?
The backfield dynamic shifted significantly after the organization released veteran running back Najee Harris on Tuesday, clearing the path for Skattebo to re-enter the active rotation.
The Giants face the Houston Texans on Oct. 25 at 6:00 p.m.
