New York Giants rookie running back Cam Skattebo is quickly becoming a fan favorite, driven by a childhood training regimen that included running into telephone poles and a burgeoning on-field chemistry with quarterback Jaxson Dart that’s revitalizing the team’s culture.
The New York Giants‘ 2025 season has been punctuated by the emergence of a dynamic duo, with rookie running back Cam Skattebo carving out an immediate and unforgettable presence. Known for his hard-hitting running style, fearless approach, and exuberant celebrations, Skattebo has quickly become a rallying point for Giants fans, infusing the team with a much-needed jolt of energy and confidence.
Skattebo’s journey to the NFL is as unconventional as his on-field persona. His mother, Becky Skattebo, famously revealed his unique childhood training regimen in an People interview that has since gone viral. “He would put his brother’s shoulder pads on and he would run into telephone poles,” Becky shared, adding, “Once he got onto the field, it was no surprise the punishment he inflicted on his own body and everybody else.” This anecdote perfectly encapsulates the relentless physicality that defines his game today.
The Untamed Rookie: A History of Dominance
Born in Rio Linda, California, in February 2002, Skattebo was a standout athlete from an early age. While he excelled in both baseball and football in high school, it was on the gridiron that he truly shone. As a junior, he rushed for an astonishing 3,550 yards and 42 touchdowns, leading his team to a state championship and earning the 2018 Sacramento Bee Offensive Player of the Year award.
His path to the NFL was a testament to his determination. Skattebo honed his skills at Sacramento State before transferring to Arizona State, where he quickly gained a reputation as one of college football’s toughest and most versatile running backs. His self-confidence has always been undeniable, often declaring, “I’m the best running back in the country.” This unwavering belief in his abilities, combined with his powerful 5-foot-10, 220-pound frame, has drawn comparisons to legendary runner Marshawn Lynch.
Kathryn Riley/Getty
Cam Skattebo of the New York Giants celebrates winning the game against the Philadelphia Eagles on Oct. 9, 2025.
Skattebo’s unique approach to the game and his inherent confidence are traits he’s carried since childhood. He recounted, “I used to put my brother’s helmet on all the time and we used to play football in the living room together.” His mother added, “Cameron’s always been able to figure out how to get up, over or through things,” a sentiment that perfectly describes his running style in the NFL.
A Partnership Forged in Fire: Skattebo and Dart
Selected 105th overall by the New York Giants in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Skattebo signed his rookie contract in June, completing the team’s draft class. His arrival coincided with a pivotal moment for the Giants, as backup quarterback and fellow 2025 draftee Jaxson Dart stepped in for Russell Wilson as the starting quarterback on September 28, 2025, against the Los Angeles Chargers.
The synergy between Dart and Skattebo was immediate and impactful. Dart led the Giants to their first victory of the season against the Chargers (21-18), and both rookies quickly became fan favorites. Their touchdown celebrations, particularly Skattebo’s signature backflips, have become an emblem of the team’s newfound swagger. After scoring a two-point conversion against the Chargers, Skattebo wowed fans with a backflip and mimicked a surfer, electrifying the stadium.
Al Bello/Getty
Jaxson Dart bumps heads with New York Giants teammate Cam Skattebo after they defeat the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Oct. 9, 2025.
Their chemistry culminated in a shocking 34-17 blowout victory over the reigning Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles on October 9, 2025. In that game, Skattebo delivered a historic performance, rushing for three touchdowns and 98 yards on 19 carries, becoming the first rookie since Charlie Evans in 1971 to achieve such a feat. Dart, equally impressive, recorded both a passing and rushing touchdown. Quarterback Jaxson Dart praised his teammate following the Eagles win, stating, “I mean, he’s crazy, bro. He’s crazy. But he’s a baller, man. Us coming in here, we’re really just trying to change the culture of intensity. He played his a— off tonight. I love him.”
While Skattebo faced a 15-yard taunting penalty for simply exclaiming “First down” during the Eagles game, it only added to his growing legend. His impact on the Giants’ rushing attack has been undeniable, especially since Dart took over as starter. Though he didn’t score in the week 4 game against the Chargers (25 rushes, 79 yards) or the week 5 matchup against the Saints (15 rushes, 59 yards), his consistent effort and ground game paved the way for his explosive performance against the Eagles.
Beyond the Gridiron: The Man Behind the Mayhem
Skattebo’s big personality isn’t limited to game days. He’s a beloved figure in the Giants locker room and a constant source of energy. Head coach Brian Daboll often grins at Skattebo’s antics, once pausing a press conference after the rookie yelled from the practice field and remarking, “He’s like that pretty much all the time.” His exuberance was on full display after the Eagles win when he, encouraged by Dart, ripped his shirt off on live TV next to former quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, much to the delight of chanting fans. Teammate Gunner Olszewski affectionately described him as “awesome, he’s as genuine as they come. He’s genuinely an idiot.”
Ishika Samant/Getty
Cam Skattebo of the New York Giants celebrates a two-point conversion against the Los Angeles Chargers at MetLife Stadium on Sept. 28, 2025.
Grounded by Family and Support
Off the field, Skattebo remains grounded by his family and personal interests, notably fishing. His jersey number, 44, holds special significance: “Obviously I wanted no. 4, but it’s retired,” he explained. “My brother wore no. 44 in high school. I wear one ‘4’ for me and one ‘4’ for him.” His mother fondly recalled his boundless energy from an early age, noting he “started walking at 7 months old. His balance has been there from day 1. Been running ever since.”
His biggest supporter is his girlfriend, Chloe Rodriguez. A former cheerleader and track athlete from California State University, Chloe met Cam at Sacramento State. Their friendship blossomed into romance, becoming official on Instagram by 2021. Chloe, a 23-year-old gymnastics instructor, has gained her own following among Giants fans for her vibrant game-day appearances, sporting custom “Skattebo #4” gear and cheering him on relentlessly, even through a preseason hamstring injury.
The Future of the Giants’ Backfield
The New York Giants, currently 2-4 this season, are seeing a revitalization fueled by the unexpected success of Dart and Skattebo. Their dynamic playmaking has injected excitement into the fanbase and offered a glimpse into a promising future. As Skattebo, nicknamed ‘Nature Boy’ for his relentless style, continues to impress, he’s solidifying his position as a crucial component of the Giants’ offensive identity. If the team continues to leverage his unique talents, he could undoubtedly be one of the finds of the 2025 season, establishing a lasting legacy in New York and beyond. The Giants next take on the Denver Broncos on Sunday, October 19.
