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The John Harbaugh Najee Harris release story has taken an unexpected turn. The New York Giants released veteran running back Najee Harris on Oct. 20, just two days after he started in the team’s loss to the New Orleans Saints.
Harris’ departure comes during a difficult stretch for the Giants’ rushing attack. The veteran back was given the starting role Sunday but struggled to make an impact, finishing with only four carries for 2 yards. That was the lowest rushing production among the six Giants players credited with a carry in the game.
John Harbaugh Najee Harris Release Shakes Up Giants Backfield
The move adds another layer of uncertainty to a backfield that has been searching for a clear leader. Harris was second on the Giants in rushing yards this season behind Cam Skattebo, with 99 yards before his release.
Skattebo opened the season as New York’s primary running back, but his workload declined after he fumbled four times. He did not receive a carry in Sunday’s 34-27 home defeat to New Orleans, despite being active for the game.
The Giants also had Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary available at running back. Even with four backs dressed, New York managed just 34 total rushing yards against the Saints. Backup quarterback J.J. McCarthy led the team in rushing with 26 yards after replacing Jameis Winston.
Explosive Backfield Frustration Emerges
Following the loss, Harris expressed frustration with the Giants’ running-back-by-committee approach. He said it was difficult to establish a rhythm when players received only one or two carries before being removed from the game.
“It’s hard to get into a rhythm with one or two runs,” Harris said Sunday. “The first couple runs you’ll be like: ‘OK, how are they playing me?’ And then the next ones will be like: This is how you attack it.”
Harris added that getting one play and then sitting for an entire series made it difficult to understand how to attack the defense. His comments attracted attention because they came immediately after he received the starting assignment.
However, a source told ESPN’s Jordan Raanan that Harris’ remarks were not the reason for his release. The decision appears to be tied to the Giants’ broader concerns about production and consistency in the backfield.
John Harbaugh Demands a Running Back Step Up
John Harbaugh, now leading the Giants, acknowledged that the team has not found a dependable feature back. He said the backs were given equal opportunities during the first half against New Orleans, with the coaching staff looking for someone to seize control.
“One of those guys needs to step up,” Harbaugh said. “Somebody needs to step up and be the back. And none of those guys have done that yet.”
Harbaugh’s comments underline the urgency facing New York. The Giants entered the game at 3-2-1 but left with questions about their offensive identity, quarterback situation and rushing production. The loss of Harris now makes the running back competition even more significant.
- Cam Skattebo: The former top option remains part of the competition but must overcome recent ball-security concerns.
- Tyrone Tracy Jr.: He could see additional opportunities following Harris’ departure.
- Devin Singletary: His experience could become valuable as the Giants adjust their rotation.
- J.J. McCarthy: The backup quarterback led the team in rushing Sunday with 26 yards.
What Comes Next for New York?
Harris, 28, was selected in the first round of the 2021 NFL draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers. After spending four seasons in Pittsburgh, he signed with the Los Angeles Chargers but suffered a torn Achilles. He joined the Giants during the offseason and appeared to be part of a crowded running back rotation.
The timing of the release is striking, but the decision reflects a team looking for a more reliable offensive formula. New York’s rushing game has lacked consistency, and the coaching staff now has fewer options to evaluate.
For the Giants, the immediate challenge is identifying a back who can handle a larger workload while protecting the football. For Harris, the next step will be finding an opportunity with another NFL team that needs veteran depth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Giants release Najee Harris?
The Giants released Harris two days after he started against the Saints. A source told ESPN that his comments about the running-back rotation were not the reason. His limited production and the team’s search for a consistent back appear to be central factors.
How many yards did Najee Harris have in his final Giants start?
Harris carried the ball four times for 2 yards in the Giants’ 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints.
What did John Harbaugh say about the Giants’ running backs?
Harbaugh said one of the team’s running backs needs to step up and take control of the position. He explained that no player had yet earned the role of clear lead back.
Who could replace Najee Harris in the Giants backfield?
Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary are the primary remaining running back options. The Giants could also adjust their offense to account for quarterback rushing production.
