Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo put forth an outstanding performance in Wednesday's instant classic Peach Bowl during a 39-31 double-overtime loss to Texas. The workhorse Skattebo rushed for 143 yards and two touchdowns via 30 carries. He added 99 receiving yards on eight catches and a 42-yard touchdown pass to his offensive totals.
Skattebo highlighted why he's a legitimate prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. A bruising, versatile ball-carrier, contact balance, and pass-catching ability offer Skattebo one of the more well-rounded skill sets in what's slated to be a deep draft at the running back position. Above all, NFL teams will be enamored with his "want to" factor, his rare will to win and push his body to the absolute limit.
We've identified three ideal fits for Skattebo in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Miami Dolphins
Pairing Skattebo with a speed back would help an NFL offense complete their backfield. The Miami Dolphins should possess an interest in adding a player like Skattebo this offseason to remove some of the pressure from De’Von Achane. Talk about a legitimate thunder and lightning pairing for head coach Mike McDaniel to utilize.
The Dolphins did draft Jaylen Wright in the fourth round last year, but I don't think he's shown enough to prevent the Dolphins from adding another mid-round back. Raheem Mostert is a potential cap casualty this offseason, and Jeff Wilson Jr. is also on an expiring contract. The way McDaniel rotates running backs in his offense should lend itself to contemplating a change-of-pace talent like Skattebo.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders are going to make sweeping changes at running back this offseason. Zamir White, a 2022 fourth-rounder, hasn't taken advantage of his opportunity to be a lead back. Aging veterans Ameer Abdullah and Alexander Mattison are on expiring contracts and are unlikely to return in 2025. The Raiders are fielding the league's worst rushing attack, averaging 82.4 ground yards per game.
If there's a back that's shown promise on the Raiders this season, it's sophomore undrafted free agent Sincere McCormick. The undersized talent is averaging a team-high 4.7 yards per carry. McCormick rushed for a combined 142 yards in recent losses to the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Pairing him with Skattebo would give the Raiders a more well-rounded duo in 2025.
Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns will likely part ways with veteran running back Nick Chubb this offseason. A franchise legend, it's extremely unfortunate that Chubb has suffered another season-ending injury. He's on an expiring contract and the Browns will likely travel in a younger, different direction. General manager Andrew Berry must sort through his backfield issues this offseason to aid whoever the starting quarterback is next season.
Jerome Ford has been effective this season and should retain a role despite the impending changes. The Browns will require a second back to help properly navigate Chubb's upcoming departure. D’Onta Foreman and Pierre Strong Jr. haven’t helped. Skattebo is a tough between-the-tackles runner who would fit head coach Kevin Stefanski's scheme.
