Giants Weigh Jonathan Taylor Trade as Skattebo’s Fumbles Raise Concern

The Giants entered their bye week alone atop the NFC East, but uncertainty remains over their backfield. Cam Skattebo fumbled four times in his first five games, including in overtime against Washington when New York was in position to attempt a winning field goal. He accepted responsibility for the costly mistake after the game.

Skattebo then played only six snaps and had no carries in a loss to New Orleans. Coach John Harbaugh said the reduced role was not punishment. Skattebo later had a career-best 124 rushing yards and a touchdown in a win over Houston, though concerns about his ball security have reportedly persisted among the team’s decision-makers.

Those concerns have helped fuel speculation that New York could pursue Taylor. The Colts back entered Week 8 tied for the NFL lead with eight rushing touchdowns and ranked fifth with 587 rushing yards. Harbaugh has expressed interest in having a dependable lead runner, akin to Derrick Henry, whom he coached in Baltimore.

The cost could be a major obstacle. Taylor agreed to a two-year, $44 million contract extension in August, and Indianapolis is said to be seeking a substantial package of draft picks. Other teams are also reportedly interested. The Giants must decide before the November 10 trade deadline whether adding Taylor is worth the price.

There are arguments for keeping their draft capital. Skattebo has shown promise, and the team’s running game improved with quarterback J.J. McCarthy playing, including fewer loaded defensive fronts. The Giants also have a greater defensive need: they rank 26th against the run, allowing 128.1 yards per game. Any Taylor deal would have to be weighed against that weakness and the cost of reinforcing the defensive line.