Giants HC John Harbaugh responds after Cam Skattebo decision—here’s the update.

New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh did not mince words after the Week 6 home loss to the New Orleans Saints. Asked about benching starting running back Cam Skattebo, who had zero carries against the Saints, Harbaugh stressed it wasn’t a deliberate move. He explained that the backfield rotation was intended to give all four backs equal opportunities in the first half, aiming to see who got hot and balance carries among the group. He added that no coach would claim a different approach if the team doesn’t like sharing touches, insisting that the goal is to let four backs compete for carries.

Skattebo’s absence from the stat sheet came after a costly fumble in Week 5 against the Washington Commanders, a game that ended in a 27-27 tie and helped fuel discussion about the rotation. In the loss to the Saints, Skattebo spoke to reporters, noting that it’s difficult to stay productive on the ground when the team is playing from behind, as the deficit grows. He emphasized the need to return to established roles and continue working hard.

Statistically, Skattebo leads the Giants with 279 rushing yards and one rushing touchdown, but his average yards per carry sits at 3.6. The fumbles have been a recurring issue for him this season, prompting discussions about possible adjustments to the running back rotation. Sources and analysts suggested that Najee Harris could see an expanded role if Skattebo’s fumbles continue to affect trust in the group, with four backs—Harris, Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy, and Devin Singletary—being considered for active usage.

As the season unfolds, the team’s management and coaching staff face ongoing decisions about how to optimize the running game, balance carries among multiple backs, and minimize turnovers while maintaining a productive ground attack. The conversation around Cam Skattebo’s role and the overall RB rotation remains a focal point as the Giants evaluate how to move forward.