Image Source: New York Post
Najee Harris is no longer a member of the New York Giants after the veteran running back voiced frustration about his limited opportunities following Sunday’s loss to the New Orleans Saints.
The Giants released Harris on Monday, Oct. 20, 2026, just one day after a 34-27 defeat at MetLife Stadium. The move came as head coach John Harbaugh continued reshaping a struggling running back room that has yet to produce a clear lead option.
Najee Harris Released After Explosive Role Dispute
Harris carried the ball only four times for 2 yards against the Saints. After the game, he said it was difficult to find a rhythm when he was receiving only occasional snaps.
“It’s hard to get into a rhythm with one or two plays,” Harris told reporters. “If you’re getting a play here and then get taken out for a series, there’s nothing you could do. I’ve never been through none of this before.”
His comments followed a disappointing performance from the Giants’ rushing attack. Harris, Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary combined for just 34 yards on 14 carries, while New York struggled to establish consistency on the ground.
Harris finished his short Giants career with 91 rushing yards on 31 carries, an average of 3.2 yards per attempt. The numbers were far below the production he showed earlier in his NFL career with the Pittsburgh Steelers.
A Difficult Start for the Giants Running Back Room
New York signed Harris shortly before the season began after starting quarterback Jaxson Dart took a hard hit on a missed pass block involving Tyrone Tracy Jr. The addition was expected to provide experience, stability and another reliable option in the backfield.
Instead, Harris became part of a crowded and unsettled rotation. Cam Skattebo had initially served as the team’s lead back, but his role diminished after a series of costly fumbles. His most damaging mistake came in overtime against the Washington Commanders, when he lost the ball while the Giants were already within field-goal range.
Harbaugh benched Skattebo two days before Harris was released. Skattebo played only six offensive snaps against New Orleans and did not receive a carry, suggesting that the Giants were searching for a different combination in the backfield.
John Harbaugh Demands More From Giants Backs
Harbaugh has been direct about his disappointment with the group. After the Saints loss, he said no running back had done enough to claim the job outright.
“Nobody has really taken the bull by the horns,” Harbaugh said.
The coach compared the situation unfavorably with previous teams that had a dependable feature back. During his time with the Baltimore Ravens, Harbaugh had Derrick Henry available as a proven centerpiece. The Giants also previously benefited from Saquon Barkley’s presence as a clear No. 1 option.
“Our run game hasn’t earned that yet, and none of those guys have,” Harbaugh said. “Make the most of those opportunities and you’re sure to get more opportunities. Do something.”
Harris’ release indicates that the message was not limited to the team’s public postgame discussion. With the veteran gone, New York is left with Skattebo, Tracy and Devin Singletary as its primary running backs.
Tyrone Tracy Jr. Emerges as a Key Option
Tracy was the most productive member of the group against New Orleans. He totaled 45 yards and scored two touchdowns on eight touches, giving the Giants a spark despite the team’s overall offensive struggles.
His performance could lead to a larger role in the coming weeks. However, the Giants may still use a committee approach, especially with Skattebo expected to return to the mix when New York faces the Houston Texans on Sunday.
Skattebo’s return would add another layer to a backfield already dealing with questions about workload, ball security and production. Singletary remains the most experienced option among the remaining backs, while Tracy has shown flashes of big-play ability.
What Harris’ Release Means for New York
The decision to move on from Harris reflects the urgency surrounding the Giants’ running game. New York needs more consistency to support Dart and reduce pressure on the passing attack, particularly after a series of uneven offensive performances.
For Harris, the release creates an opportunity to find a new team in need of veteran depth. Before joining the Giants, he rushed for 4,312 yards and 28 touchdowns during his first four NFL seasons with the Steelers.
The situation also highlights how quickly roles can change in the NFL. Harris was brought in as a potential stabilizing presence, then started against New Orleans before being released less than 24 hours later. His public frustration and the team’s lack of rushing production combined to produce a swift ending.
The Giants now face a critical decision: identify one back capable of taking control or continue rotating several players while hoping the running game improves. Sunday’s matchup with Houston should provide an early indication of how Harbaugh plans to distribute carries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Giants release Najee Harris?
The Giants released Najee Harris after he criticized his limited opportunities following the team’s 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints. His production had also been modest, with 91 yards on 31 carries.
How did Najee Harris perform with the Giants?
Harris finished his brief Giants tenure with 91 rushing yards on 31 carries, averaging 3.2 yards per attempt. Against the Saints, he rushed four times for 2 yards.
Who will replace Najee Harris in the Giants backfield?
The Giants are expected to rely on Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary. Tracy had 45 total yards and two touchdowns against New Orleans.
What was John Harbaugh’s reaction to the Giants’ running game?
Harbaugh said no running back had taken control of the job and urged the players to make the most of their opportunities. He has expressed frustration with the unit’s lack of production.
