Giants Shift Starting Role to Najee Harris Amid Skattebo Fumble Crisis
The New York Giants are adjusting their running back rotation for Sunday's game against the New Orleans Saints. Najee Harris is expected to start, replacing Cam Skattebo, who has struggled with ball security. This move follows Skattebo's costly fumble in overtime during the Giants' tie with the Washington Commanders. The team is likely to utilize all four running backs, including Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary, to diversify the offense.
Key points
- Najee Harris is set to start against the Saints, taking over the lead role from Cam Skattebo.
- Skattebo has fumbled four times this season, including a critical turnover in overtime against Washington.
- The Giants are elevating linebacker Trace Ford to keep all four running backs active for the game.
- Skattebo remains on the roster but is expected to see a reduced workload in the backfield rotation.
- Head coach John Harbaugh stated that personnel decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.
Background
Cam Skattebo returned to the Giants in 2026 after a season-ending ankle injury in his rookie year, having previously considered retirement. He was designated as the primary runner under new head coach John Harbaugh and offensive coordinator Matt Nagy. The current adjustment marks a significant shift from his initial status as the undisputed lead back.
How outlets are covering it
NBC Sports and Big Blue View report that Harris is taking the starting role, with Big Blue View noting that Skattebo is not fully benched but will see a split in snaps. CBS Sports highlights that Harris and Skattebo had an even split in practice reps, suggesting a gradual transition rather than a complete benching. Sports Illustrated points out that the roster move allows all four running backs to play, citing Harbaugh's comments on accountability. While outlets agree on the change, they differ on the extent of Skattebo's reduction, with some emphasizing a rotation and others focusing on the immediate starter swap.
Why it matters
This change addresses the Giants' offensive struggles, particularly Skattebo's fumbling issues, which nearly cost them a win against Washington. Diversifying the backfield could improve consistency and reduce turnover risk against the Saints. It also signals a potential shift in the team's offensive strategy, moving away from a single-star running back approach.
What to watch
The Giants will face the New Orleans Saints in Week 6. The outcome of this game will likely determine whether the backfield rotation becomes permanent or if Skattebo regains his starting role. The performance of Harris and the other running backs will be closely monitored to assess the effectiveness of the new strategy.
- Report: Najee Harris is expected to take larger role in Giants backfield NBC Sports
- Fantasy Football Week 6 Matchups to Exploit: Cam Skattebo primed to run all over Saints Yahoo Sports
- Najee Harris to start against Saints, per reports Big Blue View
- Giants' Najee Harris: Could poach snaps from Skattebo CBS Sports
- Giants’ Roster Move Hints at Possible Plan for Running Backs Against the Saints Sports Illustrated
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