The New York Giants lost a significant source of energy and hope when Cam Skattebo suffered a season-ending ankle injury last Sunday in Philadelphia.
As the saying goes in the NFL, next man up. That man is a familiar face: second-year back Tyrone Tracy Jr. He's no novice in pro football, having become the Giants' lead back in his rookie season of 2024 and rushed for 839 yards and five scores in his debut campaign.
Now, though, he'll be asked to replace a player who had inspired both his teammates and Giants fans everywhere.
"He's seen a lot of stuff," guard Greg Van Roten said Wednesday of Tracy, via The Associated Press. "He's getting more comfortable in his role. So, it'll be good for him to get back out there. I think he's anxious to kind of show he's still a good running back."
Such desire to prove himself is good for Tracy, the projected top back who found himself existing in the rookie Skattebo's shadow in recent weeks. As opportunities prove scarce for the average player in the NFL, Tracy likely understands he must seize this one.
"We had a good duo going," Tracy said. "But for me to get back out there and get my opportunities, I'm just going to continue to do what I'm doing."
Fortunately, his teammates and coaches believe he can carry the load. It might not look the same as Skattebo's hard-running, physical style, but Tracy is certainly capable of making a difference.
"Tracy's a really good football player," Van Roten said. "We're just excited for him to get back to form and kind of build on what he did last year because I think he's a better player this year than he was last year."
Tracy will take over the top job with an advantage most players don't have at this point in the season: He's fresh. Tracy has only carried the ball 45 times this season, putting him on track for roughly 100 carries a year after he flirted with 200 totes in 2024. He's also a capable pass catcher, hauling in 38 passes for 284 yards and a touchdown last season.
Ultimately, it will be up to coach Brian Daboll, quarterback Jaxson Dart and the rest of the offense to collaboratively replace Skattebo's contributions. They'll hope Tracy plays a key part in that effort.
