Cam Skattebo’s star power is shining brightly as he sets his eyes on the 2025 NFL Draft, and Arizona State University (ASU) head coach Kenny Dillingham is making a strong pitch for the local NFL team to select him.
Fresh off a hard-fought Peach Bowl against the Texas Longhorns, where he shone as Offensive MVP, Skattebo’s accolades and performances have left fans and analysts buzzing about his potential next steps. The March 29 double-overtime loss didn’t diminish Skattebo’s remarkable contributions to the game, which saw him rack up 284 total yards, including 143 rushing yards, 99 receiving yards, and 42 passing yards, alongside three touchdowns. His exceptional display has raised questions: Just how likely is it for the Arizona Cardinals to bring him home?
Dillingham didn’t hold back following the game, expressing his enthusiasm about Skattebo’s future prospects. “Now if the Arizona Cardinals can just draft Cam so we can keep him home, the'd be awesome,” he stated, adding urgency to his call for local alums by emphasizing the talent Skattebo has contributed to the ASU program. It’s no secret how high hopes are for the young running back, especially after his fifth-place finish for the Heisman Trophy, solidifying him as one of the best players of the season.
But the path to the NFL is rarely straightforward. The Cardinals recently secured running back James Conner with a multi-year contract extension. Alongside Conner, rookie Trey Benson is expected to play pivotal roles next season, creating competition for any new additions to the backfield. Yet, injuries throughout the roster last season have magnified the Cardinals’ need for depth at running back, something Skattebo could provide.
Throughout the season, Conner faced knee injuries and has often shared the field alongside Benson, who’s recovering from his ankle issues. Meanwhile, the Cardinals’ third-down back, Emari Demercado, recently faced injury setbacks too. With the core contributing backs often sidelined, Skattebo’s versatile playing style may just be considered when the draft arrives.
ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper currently ranks Skattebo as the seventh-highest running back prospect for the 2025 class, projecting him as likely being available around the third round. These stats come after Skattebo's quarterback abilities were on full display during the Peach Bowl – showcasing just how dangerous he can be as more than just a running back. Another analytic source, Tankathon, lists him as the 82nd ranked overall prospect, underlining his potential for being a late second or early third-round pick. Given this new exciting dynamic, the Cardinals may find it hard to pass him up.
Yet, not all analysts see Skattebo as the player who’ll take over as the main feature back. According to The Athletic's Dane Brugler, he might be more fitting as part of a running back committee rather than the core focus. Still, his versatility as both runner and receiver opens doorways for multiple offensive play styles and schemes. This multifaceted approach could align well with Cardinals’ offensive coordinator Drew Petzing’s vision for the team.
During the Peach Bowl, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian noted, “He made some reallycritical plays,” indicating Skattebo’s ability to step up during high-pressure moments and transform gameplay. He led the FBS with 102 missed tackles forced, reaffirming his reputation on the field as tough to bring down, a skill many NFL scouts believe will translate seamlessly to the professional level. Jordan Schultz, NFL insider, put it succinctly: “Not sure what he’s gonna run, nor do I care. You can’t bring the dude down. That’s a skill the translates to the pro level.”
The potential of reuniting Skattebo with the Cardinals is tantalizing—from fan excitement to generating community support and connection to local pride. Dillingham’s relationship with Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon could also strengthen this possible transition, with Gannon previously expressing his admiration for ASU’s momentum and talent. After Dillingham visited the Cardinals earlier this season, this cordial connection could work to Skattebo’s advantage.
Packaged with his talent are the elements of local marketing appeal and fan engagement, as fans might relish seeing home-grown talent thrive at the professional level. Dodes interested to note: Do the Cardinals prioritize immediate running back depth, or will the overarching need for pass rusher influence their draft strategy instead?
Alongside the Cardinals, other organizations will certainly be keeping tabs on this rising talent. The Minnesota Vikings, for example, also have their eye on Skattebo as per Tankathon’s projections, which could complicate the mix for Arizona. Yet, with the NFL Draft scheduled for April 24-26, all eyes will be on Skattebo and his next big move.
With excitement building and analysts buzzing, one thing becomes clear: Cam Skattebo’s future, whether it lies within the Arizona Cardinals or another franchise, promises to be intensely captivating. His dynamic abilities, proven track record, and local ties create rich potential for what’s to come. Will he remain to dominate the Arizona football scene, or will his skills be showcased elsewhere? The upcoming draft will undoubtedly reveal where this exciting chapter leads.