Giants predicted to draft dynamic running mate for Cam Skattebo in 2026

The New York Giants are in an interesting position this offseason. 

After having another poor season in 2025, the team fired head coach Brian Daboll and replaced him with John Harbaugh. Now, the team has a top five pick to use in 2026, a new coaching staff, and some young talent to build around. 

With the No. 5 pick in the first round, mock drafts have had the Giants going several different directions. Most expect the Giants to take a defender, but Josh Edwards of CBS Sports published an updated mock that has the Giants going a surprising route. 

Edwards has the Giants drafting Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love at No. 5, despite already having Cam Skattebo and Tyrone Tracy at the position. 

Regarding this unique pick, Edwards offered the following analysis: 

New York had been in competition for top running back free agents Travis Etienne Jr. and Kenneth Walker III but missed out. That suggests the Giants planned to use the No. 5 overall pick on a position other than running back, but it also shows they were willing to make a steep investment in the position. Do they adjust their plans to add what could be the best player available, who would also be an asset to young quarterback Jaxson Dart?

As Edwards mentioned, the Giants were reportedly involved with free agent running backs but struck out. As a result, the team could pivot to Love, who is easily the best prospect in this draft class. 

In 2025, Love rushed for 1,372 yards and 21 total touchdowns. The running back finished third in Heisman voting in 2025 and rushed for 1,000+ yards in his final two seasons with the Fighting Irish. 

Love helps as a pass-catcher and blocker as well, making him even more valuable. In New York, Love would obviously become the top option if the team is using a top five pick. 

Skattebo and Tracy both impressed in 2025, though, so the Giants may want to give that young duo another year. Skattebo's season was ended prematurely due to a serious injury and it seemed like he was on his way to being a solid starter.

Running back may seem like a luxury pick, but an elite running back can transform an offense. Plus, it worked out pretty well the last time the Giants used a top pick on a running back. 

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