Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo is one of the biggest names in college football, and the Sun Devils hero likely saw his NFL Draft stock rise in the 39-31 double-overtime loss to Texas. Even though Arizona State fell short of pulling off the upset, Skattebo and his “undeniable” slogan will live on with fans, as will the running back’s dominant performance. Leading the team, the Senior finished the night with 30 carries for 143 yards and two touchdowns, another eight receptions for 99 yards, and also threw a 42-yard touchdown for good measure. Without him, Arizona State probably lose in blowout fashion.
While this was probably his best game of the season, it’s far from the only time the First-Team All-American gained national attention. Even though he hasn’t officially declared for the NFL Draft, it’s only a matter of time before he takes the next step in his career. A powerful runner with reliable hands, Cam Skattebo lacks the elite athleticism to be a first- or second-round pick in this loaded running back class, but he should hear his name called in the third or fourth rounds of the NFL Draft.
5 Teams That Could Select Arizona State’s Cam Skattebo In the 2025 NFL Draft
Kansas City Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs found a diamond in the rough when they selected running back Isiah Pacheco in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL Draft. A hard-nosed, physical runner, Pacheco has powered Kansas City’s rushing attack for the better part of the past three seasons. However, he will be an unrestricted free agent following the 2025 season and the Chiefs might not be able to retain him. With this in mind, the team could select Cam Skattebo in the 2025 NFL Draft as the eventual heir to Pacheco. Both running backs have similar play styles and Skattebo could seamlessly slide into the starting job in 2026 while playing a complementary role as a rookie.
Denver Broncos
Denver Broncos head coach Sean Payton built his offense around running back while he was with the Saints. While he’s tried to recapture that magic with the Broncos, the team hasn’t had the talent to properly execute his vision. Injuries have taken their toll on former second-round pick Javonte Williams, while guys like Jaleel McLaughlin and Audric Estime are better in small doses. Cam Skattebo could be Payton’s next Mark Ingram, a powerful, downhill runner who can play on all three downs.
New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints extended Alvin Kamara, but they should still invest in a new running back. Kamara is still a dangerous player, but he isn’t getting any younger. At this stage in his career, the Saints could probably get the most out of the running back by utilizing him in a committee role and keeping him fresh for the back half of the season. Unfortunately, Kendre Miller can’t stay on the field and Jamaal Williams hasn’t played well in New Orleans. Cam Skattebo could be the ideal thunder to Kamara’s lightning and eventually become the long-term starter for this storied franchise.
Baltimore Ravens
Despite all evidence to the contrary, Derrick Henry is a human being and will eventually start to age. The 30-year-old running back continues to win his battle against Father Time, entering Week 18 with 1,783 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns on the season. While he can be Baltimore’s running back of the present, the team should think about the future. Even if Henry doesn’t slow down, he will be a free agent following the 2025 season. Cam Skattebo is no Henry, but he should thrive in a similar role and can be effective with defenses focusing on Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat ability.
Carolina Panthers
This fit depends on the long-term health of Jonathon Brooks. Widely considered to be the best back in a weak 2024 NFL Draft class, Brooks suffered an ACL injury during his final collegiate season but was supposed to return early in the 2024 season. Unfortunately, his return date kept being delayed and he quickly re-injured himself after just three late-season games. If Brooks can make a clean recovery, then the Panthers won’t need Cam Skattebo. However, if they’re uncertain about his long-term health, then the team could draft the Arizona State product and pair him with breakout veteran Chuba Hubbard.
Main Photo: Michael Chow – USA Today Sports
