Meet Cam Skattebo: The Giants' Rising Star Running Back

Cam Skattebo has quickly become a standout figure in the New York Giants' backfield, captivating fans with his dynamic playing style.

Originating from Rio Linda, California, Skattebo was selected by the Giants in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, coming from Arizona State University. His reputation for a powerful running style and fearless demeanor has made him a notable presence in the league.

Skattebo's impressive athleticism and confidence have drawn attention not just locally but across the NFL. His ability to dominate on the field is evident in his powerful strides and no-nonsense approach to the game.

Here are five key insights into the life and career of this promising rookie:

Born in February 2002, Skattebo began his athletic journey as a dual-sport athlete at Rio Linda High School, excelling in both baseball and football.

In baseball, he boasted a .342 batting average and hit eight home runs during his sophomore and junior years. However, it was on the football field where he truly shined. As a junior in 2018-19, he rushed for an astounding 3,550 yards and scored 42 touchdowns, leading his team to a state championship victory.

This remarkable performance earned him the title of Sacramento Bee’s 2018 Offensive Player of the Year and secured him a Division 1 scholarship to Sacramento State in 2020. By the end of his high school career, he had amassed over 7,000 rushing yards and nearly 100 total touchdowns.

Skattebo's path to the NFL resembles a cinematic narrative. After showcasing his talents at Sacramento State, he transferred to Arizona State in 2023, where he emerged as one of college football's most versatile running backs.

At ASU, he led the team in rushing yards, receptions, and touchdowns, gaining notoriety for his unwavering confidence. “They keep saying people will try to stop me,” he stated during the 2024 Chick-Fil-A Peach Bowl media day. “There’s nobody out there that can stop me.”

This self-assuredness helped him stand out even amidst challenges faced by the Sun Devils. When discussing elite defenses, he remarked to Sports Illustrated in 2023, “If they’re studying hard, there’s a reason. I respect them because they know what they’re up against.”

Standing at 5-foot-10 and weighing 220 pounds, Skattebo's running style has drawn comparisons to NFL legend Marshawn Lynch. He embraces a direct approach, preferring to run through defenders rather than evade them. After scoring three touchdowns in Arizona State’s season finale, he expressed his determination: “Nobody respects that I’m the best running back in the country.”

Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart echoed similar sentiments following a game against the Philadelphia Eagles in October 2025, where Skattebo also scored three touchdowns. “He’s crazy, bro. But he’s a baller,” Dart said. “We’re trying to change the culture of intensity here.”

Skattebo's humor and authenticity have endeared him to teammates. Following their victory over the Eagles, he joined Dart on an Amazon Prime post-game desk segment, playfully ripping off his shirt alongside former NFL quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, much to the delight of fans.

A memorable moment occurred during head coach Brian Daboll’s press conference in September 2025 when Skattebo interrupted with enthusiasm as he exited practice. “Sorry, Skattebo,” Daboll quipped, indicating that such interactions were commonplace.

While his on-field persona is fierce, Skattebo maintains a grounded life off the field. He cherishes family connections, symbolized by his jersey number: 44.

“I wanted No. 4, but it’s retired,” Skattebo explained in an interview with Panini America. “My brother wore No. 44 in high school; it’s a family number for us.”

His mother, Becky Skattebo, shared insights about raising him: “We bought every car seat on the market, but he wouldn’t stay in it. He started walking at seven months old.”