NFL

Giants optimistic on J.J. McCarthy and Cam Skattebo for Commanders clash

  • Authored By: Sports Now
  • Updated Nov 9, 2026, 23:33 IST

New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh expects quarterback J.J. McCarthy and running back Cam Skattebo to be available for Thursday's game against the Washington Commanders following recent injury concerns.

Giants optimistic on J.J. McCarthy and Cam Skattebo for Commanders clash

The New York Giants are trending toward a full-strength roster for their upcoming Thursday night showdown against the Washington Commanders. Head coach John Harbaugh expressed optimism on Monday regarding the availability of starting quarterback J.J. McCarthy and running back Cam Skattebo, both of whom have been managing injuries following the team's recent victory over the Philadelphia Eagles.

McCarthy, who has started two games for the Giants since arriving via trade from the Minnesota Vikings, sustained a hip pointer during Sunday’s 19-11 win. Despite the injury forcing him to the sidelines for a portion of the third quarter after a heavy collision with Eagles linebacker Zack Baun, the quarterback returned to help secure the win. Harbaugh noted that while the team will continue to monitor his progress throughout the week, the current outlook for his participation on Thursday is positive.

Injury updates and roster outlook

The Giants are also preparing for the return of running back Cam Skattebo, who was sidelined for the Philadelphia game due to a hamstring injury. Skattebo had been dealing with the issue since the team's overtime win against the Houston Texans prior to their bye week. Although he was listed as doubtful last week, Harbaugh indicated that the decision to hold him out was a precautionary measure to ensure he would be ready for the quick turnaround against Washington. The coach expects Skattebo to be a full participant by game time.

With Skattebo unavailable on Sunday, Devin Singletary handled the bulk of the rushing duties, recording 31 yards on 21 carries, while recent signing Greg Desrosiers Jr. provided additional depth. The return of Skattebo is expected to bolster a ground game that struggled to find rhythm against the Eagles, averaging just 2.6 yards per carry. McCarthy, who contributed 22 rushing yards himself before his injury, remains a key component of the offensive strategy.

The Giants currently hold a 5-2-1 record and are looking to solidify their position atop the NFC East. Having already secured victories against the Dallas Cowboys and the Eagles, and having tied the Commanders in their previous encounter, Thursday’s game represents a significant opportunity for New York. As the trade deadline approaches on Tuesday, the team continues to evaluate its roster, though they have reportedly withdrawn their offer for Indianapolis Colts running back Jonathan Taylor. For now, the focus remains on the short-week preparation as the team aims to maintain its momentum at MetLife Stadium.