Cam Skattebo is set on enhancing his skill set, not scaling it back.
So, while you might catch him occasionally dodging opponents, his robust, forceful playstyle isn’t disappearing anytime soon.
“I believe Coach [John Harbaugh] appreciates my approach of charging straight through defenders. Being physical is his top priority, and it really energizes the [offensive] line,” said Skattebo, as he prepares for his sophomore NFL season after practice on Monday. “Naturally, after returning from injury, I’m focusing on minimizing unnecessary hits and refining my ability to evade defenders. I’ve realized that sometimes a small maneuver, like stepping to the left, could gain me additional yards.”
“I’m committed to continually expanding my repertoire of tactics so I can maintain my health and performance on the field.”
Last October, Skattebo’s promising season was cut short due to a severe right ankle injury, involving an open tibia fracture and dislocation. Nonetheless, he has fully participated in training camp since its inception and managed to rack up four carries for 19 yards in the preseason opener against the Vikings.
“When I went out there on Saturday, I had no feeling or any recollection of injury in my brain,” he said. “I was ready to go play football, and adrenaline gets going, so everything kind of goes away, and you’re just ready to touch the ball and go play ball.”
It was a busy day of transactions for the Giants. They signed quarterback Jake Haener and linebacker Chandler Martin and waived running back Dante Miller, who suffered a groin injury in Saturday’s preseason opener.
They also hosted veteran running back Najee Harris for a visit. Harris, coming off a torn Achilles tendon, spent four seasons with the Steelers, so Harbaugh is familiar with him.
“I felt like the hair on the back of my neck stood up when I saw him over there, you know? He’s a big dude,” Harbaugh said. “So, yes, he’s coming back from the Achilles injury he had with my brother [Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh]. And he looked good in the workout. You know, he’s not back 100 percent. He’s not in football shape yet. So, if we are able to do something, it’ll be a process. But that would be a guy that has got a lot of experience. He’s a decorated vet.”
Harris has rushed for 1,000 yards four times in his five-year career. He appeared in only three games for the Chargers last season due to his Achilles injury.