NFL Draft Odds: Patriots Favorites To Take Fascinating Running Back

Running back might not be a glaring need for the Patriots, but New England could use depth at the position, which makes one of last year’s most accomplished runners an interesting possibility.

Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo was a relative unknown entering the 2024 season. The Sun Devils standout still might not be a household name, but college football fans are sure familiar with the workhorse’s ability after a breakout campaign.

Arizona State ran him ragged in 2024. Skattebo led the nation in both rushing attempts (293) and rushing yards (1,711). He was a focal point of Kenny Dillingham’s offense and was a major reason for the Sun Devils’ incredible rebound. After a brutal 3-9 performance in 2023, ASU went 11-3 this past season, won the Big 12 and secured a spot in the college football playoff.

They came up just short in their CFP opener, losing a double-overtime instant classic to eventual national semifinalist Texas. In that game, Skattebo ran for 143 yards on 30 carries with two rushing touchdowns and also caught eight passes for 99 yards. It was an impressive finish to a career capped by a fifth-place finish in Heisman Trophy voting.

Skattebo was never going to be a first-round (or even second-round) talent, but he could hear his name called as early as the third round Friday night. That’s where the Patriots could come into play. The Pats currently own two third-round selections (Nos. 69 and 77), and if the betting market is any indication, there’s some belief they could grab the 5-foot-10 back Friday night or Saturday.

The Patriots are a +550 favorite at FanDuel Sportsbook to draft Skattebo, and they’re 6-1 favorites at DraftKings.

Team to draft Cam Skattebo (via FanDuel)
Patriots +550
Chiefs +650
49ers +750
Broncos +850
Cowboys +900
Cardinals +950

That’s far from a lock, and it’s a market priced in a way that implies no one really knows what’s going to happen with Skattebo. CBS Sports writer Tyler Sullivan connected the Patriots to Skattebo in a recent mock draft.

While running back doesn’t jump off the page as a need for the Patriots, at least compared to the other areas they must first address, Mike Vrabel’s team could use depth at the position. Perhaps Skattebo will be the man to help.