The New York Giants running back room finds itself under scrutiny following a surprising benching of star player Cam Skattebo and the release of Najee Harris after his criticism of the team's run strategy.

In a pivotal 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints, Skattebo, who leads the Giants with 294 rushing yards on 81 carries, did not receive a single rushing attempt. This marked a first in his two-year NFL career where he played without touching the ball. His reduced role was a direct consequence of a fumble during overtime in the prior week’s 27-27 tie against the Washington Commanders.

The Giants also cut Najee Harris just days after he started in place of Skattebo. Harris, who publicly questioned the running game, concluded his stint with the team after 31 rushing attempts for 99 yards over five games.

Nobody's safe, it's as simple as that,

Reflecting on his benching, Skattebo remarked, "I got taught a lesson. I had to kind of step back and look at it and figure out why... Came to practice, worked on those things, corrected them. Ready to go back out there and play ball."

He further commented on his unexpected zero touches, saying, "I didn't expect to have zero [touches], but I was expecting to not play as much like I did." Skattebo's resolve to improve signals his commitment to the team's future success.