John Harbaugh Sends Clear Message to Cam Skattebo After Giants Practice Penalty

New York Giants head coach John Harbaugh has spent his first training camp with the team learning what makes running back Cam Skattebo tick. Skattebo returned strong from a serious ankle injury in the Giants' 13-10 preseason loss to the Minnesota Vikings , and his energy has been a constant topic since.

This week, a reporter's question about that energy pulled a candid response out of Harbaugh.

John Harbaugh Calls Cam Skattebo's Energy "Infectious" In A Bad Way

During his media session Wednesday, Harbaugh was asked directly whether Cam Skattebo's energy is infectious for the rest of the Giants roster. The head coach did not hold back.

"Skatt's great. He does bring a lot of energy. But he did get a 15-yard penalty at the end of practice," Harbaugh explained . "Did you notice that? That's not infectious. Well, it is infectious, actually. Infectious in a bad way, right? Like infectious disease type of thing. We don't want that. So, we want it to be directed in a positive way."

The comment came after Skattebo slid following a reception and nearly took out the legs of a couple of Giants defensive backs during a non-contact drill.

Cornerback Greg Newsome and safety Jevon Holland were reportedly unhappy with the play, and the situation briefly escalated between the two sides. It marked the second time in recent practices that Skattebo's physical style drew a reaction from the defense, following an earlier collision with linebacker Zaire Barnes .

Harbaugh's message was clear. He wants Skattebo's competitive fire, just not at the expense of safety or team chemistry heading into the regular season.

Cam Skattebo's Rookie Season And Road Back

Cam Skattebo's competitive edge is exactly what made him a fan favorite as a rookie. He rushed for 410 yards and five touchdowns on 101 carries while adding 24 receptions for 207 yards and two more scores before a season-ending ankle injury against the Philadelphia Eagles cut his year short.

Skattebo has since opened up about his recovery , and general manager Joe Schoen confirmed the back was fully cleared for training camp. He carried the ball four times for 19 yards in the Giants' preseason opener against the Vikings and now sits atop the unofficial depth chart.

His off-field profile grew during the layoff too, including a memorable WWE appearance that had fans talking.

With roster cuts approaching and one preseason game left, all eyes turn to how Harbaugh handles his workload next.

The Giants sit 1-1 in the preseason after topping Miami 26-3 following the Vikings setback. They close out the exhibition slate Friday, August 28, hosting the Jets at MetLife Stadium before opening the regular season at home against the Dallas Cowboys .