The NFL season presents numerous challenges and opportunities for rookies. Recently, Cam Skattebo, a rookie running back for the New York Giants, has received a lukewarm review from ESPN analyst Bill Barnwell. Skattebo’s position with a struggling 1-4 team makes the context of his performance particularly interesting.
Cam Skattebo’s Performance Overview
Skattebo has stepped up as the starting running back due to Tyrone Tracy Jr.’s injury. However, his performance thus far has raised questions about his ability to adapt to the professional level. Bill Barnwell highlights some concerning statistical aspects of Skattebo’s play through the first five weeks of the season.
Key Statistics
- Rushing Attempts: 63
- Rushes of 10+ Yards: 5 (ranking 26th among 34 rookie running backs)
- Expected Points Added (EPA): -0.28 (ranking 33rd out of 34)
- Total Yardage: 240 yards on 63 carries with a 3.8 average
- Touchdowns: 2
Challenges and Concerns
While Skattebo has showcased flashes of his potential, he has struggled to generate explosive plays. His ability to gain yards is often limited to what the offensive line provides. Conversely, other rookie backs, such as Omarion Hampton and Jacory Croskey-Merritt, have shown greater success in breaking tackles and gaining additional yardage.
Receiving Capabilities
On a positive note, Skattebo has excelled in the receiving game. He has recorded 18 receptions on 22 targets, totaling 143 yards. Many of these receptions come from checkdown passes. This skill allows him to operate effectively in open space, leveraging the speed that once made him a Heisman candidate at Arizona State.
Future Prospects
The future looks mixed for Skattebo. While he has room to improve, Barnwell is uncertain whether he can maintain a three-down role in the NFL. There is interest in how Skattebo will perform long-term, especially with rookie quarterback Jaxon Dart, who has shown promise as a dual-threat player. Observing how Dart’s running ability affects Skattebo’s opportunities will be crucial moving forward.
Comparison with Fellow Rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt
In contrast, Jacory Croskey-Merritt, a rookie with the Washington Commanders, has garnered positive attention from analysts. Although faced with eligibility challenges in college, Croskey-Merritt is finding success as an NFL running back.
- Rushing Attempts: 43
- Averaged Yards per Carry: 6.6
- Rushes of 6+ Yards: 21 (nearly 49%)
Croskey-Merritt leads his peers in both EPA per rush and success rate. His playing style contrasts sharply with Skattebo’s, showcasing a more efficient and effective approach to gaining yardage in limited opportunities.
As the season progresses, both Skattebo and Croskey-Merritt will be pivotal in shaping the running back narratives for their respective teams. El-Balad will continue to monitor their developments closely.
