New York Giants Release Running Back Najee Harris After 5 Appearances

The New York Giants released running back Najee Harris on Tuesday, according to the Associated Press, ending a brief stint for the veteran in the team’s backfield. The transaction comes as New York sits at 3-2-1 following a 34-27 defeat against the New Orleans Saints. The decision was first reported by NFL Network, though it has not been confirmed by the club.

Ground Game Stumbles After Roster Shook Up

Harris recorded just two carries for four yards during Sunday’s loss in New Orleans. Across five appearances this season, he totaled 99 rushing yards without scoring a touchdown. The 28-year-old player was the starter against the Saints. The Giants signed Harris to a one-year, $1.22 million contract, hoping to tap into the production that saw him rush for over 1,000 yards in four consecutive seasons with the Pittsburgh Steelers. DAZN reported that Harris spent the 2025 campaign with the Los Angeles Chargers, where his season ended early due to a left Achilles tendon rupture. He arrived late at training camp while completing his rehabilitation.

Head coach John Harbaugh inserted Harris into the starting lineup against the Saints following a decision to reduce the role of Cam Skattebo. McCarthy led the Giants in rushing with 26 yards on two carries. DAZN noted that the Giants currently rank 31st in the NFL with just two rushing touchdowns this season, ahead of only the Steelers, while sitting 16th in total rushing yards with 629.

Uncertainty Ahead For New York Backfield

With Harris no longer on the roster and Skattebo’s role in question, the Giants’ backfield depth chart shifts toward Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary. DAZN noted that Tracy Jr. is expected to step into the primary backup role behind Skattebo, though team leadership has not detailed how touches will be distributed moving forward. Harbaugh’s precise game plan for the upcoming matchup against the Houston Texans remains unconfirmed, leaving the offensive rotation opaque as New York prepares for Week 7.

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