Depending on how Cam Skattebo’s recovery from a gruesome lower leg injury progresses, the New York Giants will need another running back to emerge. Enter Damon Bankston, an undrafted free agent (UDFA) rookie with a prime chance to make a name for himself.
Bankston garnered buzz earlier this offseason and appears to be emerging as a cult hero of sorts among Giants fans, and understandably so. At 5-foot-10, 186 pounds, he's not the biggest guy in the room, though his speed, athleticism and versatility are welcome traits in the NFL. The former New Mexico standout has the tools to be a difference-maker in several areas, giving him multiple avenues to earning a roster spot.
Overlook Bankston at your own peril. He's an efficient runner, an explosive pass-catcher out of the backfield, a dynamic return man and a willing blocker. His multifaceted skill set may leave New York with no choice but to keep him on the 53-man squad with a strong training camp showing.
UDFA rookie RB Damon Bankston could force his way onto Giants' 53-man roster at training camp
Being counted out is nothing new to Bankston. He wasn't a highly touted prospect coming out of high school or college and has had to scratch and claw his way to the pros. Pressure makes diamonds, as the saying goes, and the 23-year-old has turned a remarkable underdog story into a potential hidden gem for the G-Men.
It wouldn't be shocking to see Bankston be used in a third-down role with New York. His outstanding efforts in the receiving game were on full display in 2025, which the numbers bear out. 83 RBs in Division I FBS recorded at least 25 targets, including him, and he ranked highly in the following key metrics:
- Fourth in passer rating when targeted (140.2)
- Fifth in yards per reception (12.9)
- Tied for sixth in yards per route run (2.31)
- 12th in yards after catch per reception (10.8)
Note: Stats courtesy of Pro Football Focus ($).
Moreover, Bankston's fantastic special teams value cannot be discounted. He averaged an impressive 36.2 yards per kickoff return last season and took two back to the house. An opportunity to carve out a role in the third unit presents itself, especially after wide receiver Gunner Olszewski suffered a torn Achilles tendon.
There's always room for a well-rounded contributor like Bankston, and if there isn't, you make space. He's dangerous with the ball in his hands and someone Big Blue Nation should be keeping an eye on throughout the summer. Guys like him don't just grow on trees and have a way of sticking around regardless of their pedigree (or lack thereof).
Uncoincidentally, New Mexico experienced a significant turnaround in Bankston's lone campaign with the program. They finished with a winning record (9-4) and earned a bowl appearance for the first time since 2016. He was a massive piece of their success upon arriving as a senior transfer from Weber State, and his presence was felt in multiple ways.
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