Cam Skattebo’s story with the Giants was just starting to come together when everything stopped Sunday night. The rookie running back, one of the few good parts of an otherwise rough season, ended up with an ankle injury in the second quarter against the Eagles. Needless to say, Giants’ fans were devastated by this outcome.
It’s a hard thing to witness, and it just especially be hard for him, as someone who’s worked hard to get here. Skattebo wasn’t some rookie who was handed this starting position and told, “good luck.” He was a fourth-round pick out of Arizona State, and he’d been showing exactly what he could do and what he’s made of by bringing what the team had been missing alongside fellow player Jaxson Dart.
Now, it’s all put on hold. The Giants said he dislocated his right ankle, which ended up needing surgery. There also isn’t a set return date, meaning his rookie year is likely over.
It’s bad news for both him and for the team. The Giants had finally found something helpful and efficient with Skattebo in their mix. He brought something to work with for an offense that needed any sort of help they could get. Now, without him, they’ll have to hope someone else can step up.
Everyone knows that injuries are part of football, and they’re right, of course. A lot of sports end up with players having injuries at some point; it seems to be a part of the package. Still, that doesn’t make it any easier to watch a player’s season end like this, especially when it’s just getting started and looking good for them.
For Skattebo, it’s a setback that’ll test his limits, his determination and his perseverance. For the Giants, it’s just another reminder that nothing in life comes easy. A few weeks ago, Skattebo looked like a bright part of the team’s future. Now, all they can do is wait and hope he gets the chance to keep working toward it.
