The rise of Heisman candidate Ashton Jeanty has caused other standout college running backs to slip under the radar. Jeanty’s scintillating season for Boise State, with over 2,400 rushing yards and nearly 30 touchdowns, has set a high bar, making many others seem ordinary. However, Cam Skattebo is anything but ordinary — a fact his Arizona State teammates know well. And scouts are currently projecting him as a third-day pick.
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In the Big 12 Championship game, Skattebo showcased his dominance, single-handedly dismantling Iowa State with 170 rushing yards and two TDs. This season, he has amassed 1398 yards, while carrying the ball 247 times and averaging 5.7 yards per carry. He has also added 17 TDs. Cam has also displayed his worth as a receiver, accumulating 468 yards and 2 TDs.
While Jeanty is a sure lock to go in the first round of the NFL draft, Skattebo is likely to be selected in the 4th or 5th round. There are plenty of teams in need of a good rusher and his 5-foot-11, 225-pound frame and punishing running style will still have plenty of suitors.
One of them could be the Arizona Cardinals, who have made rapid strides this season, and are closing in on a spot in the playoffs. They currently have James Conner, who is on a two-year contract. However, he will be 30 next year.
It is possible that the franchise won’t sign him a new contract and rather look to draft new talent. In that case, Skattebo will be a great addition. And the young running back will get to stay in Arizona as well.
Another team in need of a good RB is the Dallas Cowboys.
Is Skattebo a better option for the Cowboys?
Jerry Jones last spent the Cowboys’ first-round pick on a running back in 2016 when he drafted Ezekiel Elliot. He can do it again if he chooses to draft Jeanty. But that’s unlikely. Instead, the Cowboys will look for a reinforcement RB in a later round and Skattebo seems like the best option.
They desperately need a rusher, having suffered throughout the season with their inability to run the ball. Skattebo is good value for a draft pick for a team that hasn’t drafted well in recent seasons.
The Cincinnati Bengals can’t run the ball
It has been evident throughout the season that the Bengals are a pass-oriented side and can’t run the ball. They are 27th in the league, averaging less than 100 yards a game. Joe Burrow has been burdened to lead that offense, continuously throwing the ball to make plays. They let Joe Mixon go and failed to sign a proper replacement.
With all their cap tied up in Burrow and soon, Ja’Marr Chase, they need a rookie RB. And Skattebo seems like the kind of guy who would fit well in that system, given his ability to run as well as catch the ball.
The Chicago Bears need a rusher
The Bears addressed their offense in the first round of the 2024 draft by signing a quarterback and a wide receiver, giving them plenty of weapons. However, their running back position remains a glaring weakness. The team ranks 23rd in the league in rushing.
While D’Andre Swift has managed a respectable 704 yards, his 3.9 yards per carry leaves much to be desired.
Their top priority will be hiring a head coach, followed by bolstering the offensive line to give Caleb Williams the protection he needs. To ease the pressure on Williams in the passing game, the Bears will also need a reliable rusher. Skattebo might be exactly the guy they’re looking for.
