Cam Skattebo is expected to return to the New York Giants' running back rotation for Sunday's game against the Houston Texans, coach John Harbaugh said Friday. Skattebo had a "good week" of practice after being benched during a difficult stretch that included a crucial overtime fumble against the Washington Commanders. He did not record a single carry in Sunday's 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints, and he played just six snaps in that game after averaging 42 over the first five games.
Skattebo said he had to step back and reassess his approach. "I think I got taught a lesson," he said. "I don't know if that's from them or from myself, but I kind of had to step back and look at it and figure out why I was doing the things I was doing." The Giants praised how he handled the situation, and Harbaugh said he has always been expected to play a big part in the season. Harris, who was released Tuesday, had been ahead of Skattebo in the rotation against the Saints, along with Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary. Harbaugh indicated that a four-man rotation was too much, and Skattebo and Tracy are expected to split the primary role against a Texans defense that ranks third in the NFL against the run.
Skattebo leads the team in rushing with 81 carries for 294 yards (3.6 YPC) and one touchdown. Giants running backs have averaged just 2.4 yards per carry this season, and Harbaugh has been waiting for someone to take control of the position. Skattebo, who has fumbled five times in 13 career games, acknowledged that his job is not secure. "I didn't do anything yet," he said. "Whatever my role is on Sunday is going to be my role and I'm going to give it everything I've got."
Tracy has also earned more reps after a rough start to the season. He had a rushing and a receiving touchdown in the loss to the Saints. Skattebo summed up the team's mindset: "Nobody's safe. It's as simple as that."
Source: ESPN NFL · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing