Per Combine IQ, he posted the same vertical as explosive New Orleans Saints dynamo Alvin Kamara, who’s established himself as one of the league’s best running backs since being selected in the third round of the 2017 draft.
Combine IQ data also shows he’s one of two running backs with a 39.5″ vertical or higher at the combine and a production score of at least 90 since 2003, joining 2024 Associated Press Offensive Player of the Year Eagles running back Saquon Barkley.
NFL.com noted that Skattebo’s impressive vertical improved “his current [Next-Gen Stats] athleticism score to a 74.”
“He is now firmly sitting as the No. 2 running back in this year’s class (behind [Boise State running back] Ashton Jeanty) with an overall draft score of 88,” NFL.com continued.
Skattebo was also widely hailed as the second-best running back behind Jeanty in college football during the 2024 season. He finished fifth in Heisman voting, gaining 2,316 yards from scrimmage (1,711 rushing, 605 receiving) with 24 total touchdowns on 338 plays (6.7 yards per play).
Skattebo also completed a 42-yard touchdown pass in the Peach Bowl against Texas. He was unbelievable in his final game, putting Arizona State on his back as it nearly pulled off an upset in a 39-31 double-overtime loss. The senior back finished the heartbreaker with 30 carries, 143 yards, two rushing touchdowns and eight receptions for 99 yards.
NFL.com noted that Skattebo is unlikely to participate in the 40-yard dash and other drills, which could be wise considering he isn’t known as a speedy back. He’s much more of a bruising-style runner and endurance back.
Last season, Pro Football Focus credited Skattebo with 103 missed tackles forced, trailing Jeanty for the most in FBS. Per CFB Stats, Skattebo was strongest in the fourth quarter, averaging 6.2 yards per carry.
Skattebo began his collegiate career at FCS Sacramento State (2021-22) before transferring to Arizona State in 2023. He’s used to being overlooked, having entered college as a zero-star prospect.
If his college tape wasn’t strong enough evidence, Skattebo’s vertical jump should remind everyone what a rare athlete he is.
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