
The New York Giants have been one of the league’s most surprising teams to open the 2026 NFL season. After a road victory against the Houston Texans, the Giants are 4-2-1 and in first place in the NFC East.
The Giants’ hot start has been even more impressive considering the injuries they have dealt with to begin the year. Quarterback Jaxson Dart suffered a knee injury in Week 2 that will sideline him for the remainder of the season, and edge rusher Brian Burns suffered a season-ending torn ACL in Week 3. Despite this, the Giants offense has maintained steady production over recent weeks.
One of the more intriguing offensive storylines has been the team’s backfield, particularly the role of second-year running back Cam Skattebo. After starting the team’s first five games, Skattebo saw his workload disappear in Week 6 after fumbling four times during the first five weeks.
However, he responded in a big way during Week 7 against Houston. He rushed 17 times for 124 yards and a touchdown, averaging 7.3 yards per carry. This performance included a 42-yard run in overtime, which would eventually set up Devin Singletary for the game-winning touchdown.
Skattebo’s Week 7 breakout, combined with an injury in the backfield, has created a decision for head coach John Harbaugh over whether to return him to a full-time lead back.
According to Jordan Raanan of ESPN, running back Tyrone Tracy is being placed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury and will be required to miss at least four games.
RB Tyrone Tracy (hamstring) is being placed on injured reserve. Won’t be long term but has to miss four games.
— Jordan Raanan (@JordanRaanan) October 27, 2026
Giants are signing RB Greg Desrosiers off the practice squad from the Chargers.
Tracy’s absence removes one of the Giants’ primary backfield options, creating an opportunity for Skattebo to grab a firm hold on the lead-back role he had early in the year.
While Tracy’s injury is not expected to be long-term, the next few games after the Giants’ bye week will be an important test for Skattebo if he receives an increased workload.
More must-reads:
+
Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!