Imagine how much more positive the world would be if we all had New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo as a life coach.
Much like Patriots legend Rob Gronkowski, Skattebo has that perfect blend of joyous enthusiasm, confidence, and a slight tinge of arrogance.
Such belief in oneself is acceptable, though, when they meet the lofty expectations they set for themselves. Not even last year’s gruesome ankle injury has killed Skattebo’s faith in himself, even if it cost him the back half of his rookie season.
Speaking on “The Insiders,” Skattebo said he doesn’t plan on letting the injury change his personality or play style.
“I’m going to get back [to] running people over like you see on the videos,” Skattebo said. “It’s going to be normal Cam Skattebo from here on out.”
Giants fans should love Cam Skattebo’s relentless positivity
Skattebo turned heads earlier this offseason when he told fans he planned to rush for over 2,000 yards. Never mind that only nine running backs in NFL history accomplished such a feat, none of whom did so in a Giants uniform. Tiki Barber owns the Giants’ single-season franchise record with 1,860 rushing yards in 2005.
And yet, we can’t bring it on ourselves to roll our eyes at Skattebo. Not when he’s so genuinely passionate about talking himself up.
Skattebo wants to be the best, even when the context works against him. John Harbaugh spent nearly 20 years in Baltimore and rarely had a running back exceed 300 carries, another number that Skattebo said he wants to hit.
In a way, though, Skattebo’s outlook is refreshing because it’s far simpler than just saying “I want to be the best.” Good luck finding anyone, especially someone on their rookie contract, say they’d be fine being above-average — or even just doing the bare minimum.
Skattebo’s on-field play will dictate his ultimate legacy. We’ve seen many a fan favorite eventually lose their support because of injuries or poor performance. Dexter Lawrence all but sealed his death warrant with some fans when he feuded with Carl Banks last season.
But for now, Giants fans fully back Skattebo, and he’s prepared to justify their loyalty.
“I’ve still got plenty of football left,” Skattebo said. “Plenty of life left. I’m not going to let this little ankle thing bother me.”
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