The New York Giants chose not to make any moves at the NFL trade deadline, keeping their draft picks as they prepare for the second half of the season. Although the team explored adding a defensive tackle like Jeffery Simmons and a running back like Jonathan Taylor, John Harbaugh and Joe Schoen ultimately decided against a deal.
Giants Pursuit of Jonathan Taylor Ends
According to Fox Sports, New York initially offered second- and fifth-round draft picks to the Indianapolis Colts for their star running back before withdrawing the proposal. The Giants were unable to reach an agreement with the Colts, who reportedly sought too high a price for Taylor.
Discussing the decision on Tuesday, as reported by NJ.com, Harbaugh explained the rationale behind standing pat. “You don’t want to make a bad deal,” Harbaugh said. “You make a bad deal, that doesn’t make you better. That makes you worse. Sometimes, the best deal is the deal that you don’t make.”
Harbaugh added that the franchise remains open to improving the roster at the right cost. “We’re willing to pay a price to make our team better. But it’s got to be something that really makes our team better. It’s got to be worth it. I would want a player that we love,” he stated.
Cam Skattebo Retains Lead Role
The stalled negotiations mean running back Cam Skattebo will continue handling the bulk of the carries for New York. Speaking in the locker room after the trade deadline closed, Skattebo addressed maintaining his starting position following the team’s pursuit of Taylor.
“I’ve been that guy,” Skattebo said. “Obviously, we had that one-week hiccup where I got in trouble. That was it. I came back that next week and handled business. They know what I’m capable of. They know what I can do.”
Skattebo has accumulated 418 rushing yards and two touchdowns across seven appearances this season. His campaign has featured significant ups and downs, including a benching followed by a standout performance.
After committing a costly overtime fumble in a tie against the Washington Commanders, Skattebo received zero touches in Week 6. He responded in Week 7 with a career-best 124 rushing yards and a touchdown against the Houston Texans. That redemption performance included a 42-yard run in overtime that set up the team’s fourth victory of the year.
Skattebo sustained a hamstring injury during that 42-yard run, causing him to sit out the Week 9 victory over the Philadelphia Eagles. However, he is on track to return this Thursday for the rematch against the Commanders.
“You’ve seen what I can do,” Skattebo said. “When I come out, and I’m ready to play football, I can be one of the most dangerous backs in the league. Simple as that.”
With a 5-2-1 record, the Giants hold a two-game lead over the Dallas Cowboys in the NFC East. While adding Taylor—who averages the fifth-most rushing yards per game in NFL history at 88.8—might have elevated the offense, Skattebo remains confident in his ability to serve as the team’s primary weapon.
