Giants’ Cam Skattebo impresses coach despite not being 100%

Cam Skattebo made his return to game action for the New York Giants, and John Harbaugh liked what he saw. The running back carried four times for 19 yards against the Minnesota Vikings. Skattebo entered the preseason opener after suffering a serious leg injury during his rookie NFL season. He has since been cleared without structural limitations and expects to handle a major role this season. MORE: Tom Brady calls out NFL players for resting during preseason Still, Harbaugh thinks that Skattebo is not yet at full strength. The Giants coach saw enough during his first game to highlight traits that can make him valuable in New York’s offense. “I’ve learned that you really can’t evaluate running backs until the tackling starts, until the games start,” Harbaugh told reporters. “And, you know, I haven’t been around Skattebo day to day. You know him better as a player than I do. “I got to see him for the first time in a game, and I don’t think he’s 100%. He would say he’s not. But I got to see what you know about him already.” Harbaugh then pointed beyond Skattebo’s physical running style, which has drawn plenty of attention since his arrival in New York. “I saw the foot quickness, the feel for the game, the explosiveness,” Harbaugh said. “It was good to watch, and good for me to see that.” The expectation around Giants’ Cam Skattebo East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo (44) carries the ball as Minnesota Vikings defensive end Tyrion Ingram-Dawkins (90) tackles during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters) That evaluation matters because Skattebo needs to offer more than contact balance in a revamped Giants offense. His vision and quick feet can help create production when blocking breaks down. But one has to also view his return through the team’s larger offensive structure. New York needs reliable rushing production while Jaxson Dart takes over at quarterback. The Giants finished 4–13 last season, and injuries to Skattebo and Malik Nabers hurt an offense already lacking consistency. Harbaugh’s arrival brings a new system and different expectations. MORE: Giants’ player retires suddenly after only 4 days with team Skattebo’s workload should therefore remain measured during the preseason. The Giants have more to gain from keeping him healthy than proving he can handle heavy carries in August. His four-carry outing offered an encouraging first step without providing enough evidence to judge his full recovery. Harbaugh’s comments suggest the Giants will evaluate Skattebo through his movement and decision-making, not just his toughness. If those traits return fully, Skattebo can become an important piece of New York’s offensive identity. For now, his ability to contribute while still below 100% gives the Giants another reason for optimism. — Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories with The Big Lead Newsletter —