Cam Skattebo injury update: surgery completed after dislocated ankle, season outlook and what it means for the Giants

Rookie running back Cam Skattebo suffered a dislocated right ankle in Sunday’s loss to Philadelphia and underwent surgery late Sunday night. By midday Monday (October 27), team officials said the procedure went well and that Skattebo has begun the early stages of recovery. A formal return timetable has not been announced, but the nature of the injury and in-season surgical repair make a season-ending absence likely.

What happened to Cam Skattebo

Midway through the first half, Skattebo was rolled up from behind at the end of a tackle, with his lower leg and ankle twisting underneath. Medical staff immediately stabilized the joint, applied an air cast, and carted him to the locker room for imaging before a hospital transfer. He had logged three carries and an 18-yard receiving touchdown prior to the play—another snapshot of how central he had become to New York’s early-down identity and red-zone designs.

Current status: surgery details and next checkpoints

The club confirmed that surgery “went well” and that Skattebo is in good spirits. Early priorities now are pain management, swelling control, and protecting the repair. Over the next 48–72 hours, doctors will monitor for compartment pressures, nerve function, and skin integrity around the surgical site—standard checks after a high-energy ankle dislocation.

While every case is unique, ankle dislocations with associated ligament and possible fracture involvement typically require months of rehabilitation. Milestones usually include:

• Weeks 0–2: immobilization, elevation, and gentle range-of-motion under guidance.

• Weeks 3–8: progressive weight-bearing and early strengthening once cleared.

• Months 3–6+: advanced stability work, straight-line running, then cutting and contact progression.
  Given the calendar, a return in 2025 is improbable.

Why a dislocated ankle is a long recovery

A true dislocation indicates the talus has been forced out of the mortise formed by the tibia and fibula. Even when bones aren’t fractured, the ligamentous structures—including the deltoid, lateral ligaments, and syndesmosis—can be severely damaged. Surgical goals are to restore alignment, repair or reconstruct torn tissues, and, if needed, stabilize the syndesmosis with hardware. Long-term performance hinges on restoring ankle stability, proprioception, and push-off power—critical for a running back’s burst and contact balance.

Depth chart fallout: how New York replaces Cam Skattebo

Skattebo had carved out touches as a downhill finisher with receiving utility, forcing missed tackles after contact and giving the offense a dependable outlet on designed checkdowns. With him sidelined:

• Backfield usage redistributes to the remaining committee, likely tilting toward a between-the-tackles runner for early downs and a pass-proficient option on long yardage.

• Short-yardage and red-zone packages may shift to heavier personnel, with more QB keepers and tight end inserts to replicate Skattebo’s goal-line efficiency.

• Screen and swing game will still feature, but expect more motion and bunch looks to manufacture easy yards for slot receivers and tight ends.

Fantasy note: anticipate a near-term committee. The biggest beneficiary is whoever secures two-minute and third-down snaps given this offense’s game scripts.

The bigger picture for Skattebo’s trajectory

The rookie’s start showcased vision, contact balance, and soft hands—traits that translate even when blocking isn’t perfect. The rehab now becomes a marathon: rebuild strength, preserve range, and restore confidence in cuts. Running backs returning from severe ankle trauma can regain productivity, but timelines vary widely. The medical and performance staffs will emphasize:

• Swelling and tissue quality before pushing load.

• Foot/ankle mechanics to avoid compensations up the kinetic chain (calf, knee, hip).

• Eccentric and isometric strength for deceleration and re-acceleration in tight spaces.

• Gradual on-field reintroduction—walk-throughs, individual drills, then controlled contact.

What’s next

Expect periodic updates from the team as swelling subsides and the rehab plan moves from protection to motion and strength. Skattebo will remain with the club during recovery as logistics allow, with injured reserve the procedural step to open a roster spot. Support from teammates has been immediate and visible, and the staff’s early message is consistent: prioritize full health, then build back methodically.

Cam Skattebo’s surgery for a dislocated right ankle was successful. While no official timeline is set, the injury almost certainly ends his 2025 season. The focus now is an uncompromising rehab that preserves the burst and balance that made his rookie impact so striking.