As the 2025 NFL Draft draws closer, the Detroit Lions are doing their due diligence on several intriguing prospects — one of whom is Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo. According to multiple reports, Skattebo was hosted on a Top-30 pre-draft visit, signaling genuine interest from the Lions in one of college football’s most productive and gritty backs from the 2024 season.
Skattebo turned heads in his final collegiate season by racking up an incredible 1,711 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns on the ground. He was just as effective as a receiver, hauling in 45 receptions for 605 yards and three touchdowns. That dual-threat ability helped him finish fifth in Heisman Trophy voting and gain national attention as one of the most complete running backs in the country.
What separates Skattebo from many of his peers is his physical running style and relentless motor. Over 1,200 of his rushing yards came after contact, and he averaged four yards per carry after being hit — showcasing a rare blend of toughness and balance. His style of play earned him the No. 1 spot in Erik Schlitt’s “Grit Index,” which measures players based on qualities like effort, intensity, and physicality — all traits that align perfectly with the Lions’ team identity under head coach Dan Campbell.
While Detroit currently boasts a talented backfield with the dynamic Jahmyr Gibbs and the hard-nosed David Montgomery, adding a player like Skattebo could provide the team with important depth and a potential weapon for the future. His ability to contribute on special teams, paired with his pass-catching and short-yardage prowess, makes him a versatile option who could see the field early in his NFL career.
The Lions may not be in urgent need of another running back, but their interest in Skattebo indicates they’re not shying away from building depth at key positions. Teams that maintain success in the NFL often stack talent and prepare for injuries or potential roster shifts — and Skattebo checks all the boxes as a high-effort, plug-and-play prospect.
Detroit’s Top-30 visits give valuable insight into their draft strategy, and Skattebo’s visit suggests he could be a mid-to-late round target for the Lions. Whether or not they ultimately select him, it’s clear the team is prioritizing players who fit their culture of grit, toughness, and versatility. Skattebo’s visit is one to watch as the draft approaches, especially for a team looking to maintain its edge in the NFC North.
