Skattebo's backflip attempt at Fanatics Fest raises injury concerns

New York Giants running back Cam Skattebo attempted a backflip on stage at the Fanatics Fan Fest in New York and lost his balance, falling backward in front of the crowd. The stunt came as he continues to recover from the ankle injury that ended his rookie season.

Skattebo, who entered the stage to Triple H's entrance music, lifted his trouser leg to show fans the scar from his surgery and appeared to tell the crowd his knee was healthy. He did not leave the event limping, and the source describes him as being in high spirits despite the awkward landing.

A coach's instruction set aside

The stunt runs against guidance Skattebo is said to have received from new Giants head coach John Harbaugh, who was hired from the Baltimore Ravens. According to the source, Harbaugh told him "no back flips" as he took part in light practice at the team's organised team activities in June.

Giants supporters reacted with a mix of amusement and alarm, with several comments expressing concern that the manoeuvre risked the knee and ankle he is still rehabilitating.

• Skattebo suffered an open tibia fracture, a ruptured deltoid ligament and a right ankle dislocation last season, cutting his rookie year short
• As a rookie he recorded 410 rushing yards, 24 receptions for 207 yards and seven touchdowns from scrimmage
• He took part in light practice at Giants OTAs in June
• Harbaugh, previously of the Baltimore Ravens, had instructed him not to attempt backflips

Why it matters

The Giants are preparing for a new era under Harbaugh, with Matt Nagy installed as offensive coordinator and Greg Roman on staff as an assistant. The offence is expected to lean further toward a gap-based run scheme, which puts weight on a backfield that helped the team finish last season as a top-five rushing unit.

Whether the episode is a sign of confidence in his recovery or a moment of poor judgement, Skattebo's availability will be a factor as the Giants build their offence around the running game and his partnership with quarterback Jaxson Dart.