New York Moves On From Veteran Running Back
The New York Giants are moving on from veteran running back Najee Harris after a disappointing start to his tenure with the organization. The decision, reported Tuesday, October 20, comes just two days after Harris publicly expressed frustration with his limited role in the team’s offense.
Harris joined the Giants in August, hoping to revive his career following a season-ending Achilles injury suffered during his time with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2025. However, his opportunity in New York has not gone as planned, and the team has decided to move in a different direction.
The 28-year-old appeared in five games for the Giants, recording 99 rushing yards on 31 carries. His 3.2 yards per carry fell short of expectations for a veteran who previously established himself as a reliable starting running back.
Frustration Builds After Saints Loss
Harris’ departure follows New York’s 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday. Despite starting the game, Harris received just four carries for two yards, struggling to make an impact in a crowded backfield.
After the game, Harris voiced his frustration with the team’s running back rotation, explaining that it was difficult to find a rhythm when he was repeatedly taken out of the lineup.
His comments put additional attention on a backfield that has struggled to establish a consistent leader. Head coach John Harbaugh acknowledged the frustration but emphasized that players needed to make the most of their opportunities.
The Giants have rotated Harris with Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr. and Devin Singletary, making it difficult for any one player to take control of the position.
A Surprising Fall for a Former 1,000 Yard Rusher
Harris entered the NFL as a first round pick by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2021. He recorded four consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons in Pittsburgh and earned a Pro Bowl selection as a rookie.
Across his NFL career, Harris has accumulated 4,472 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns. Those numbers make his recent struggles particularly notable, although his recovery from a serious Achilles injury may have affected his performance.
What’s Next for the Giants?
New York will now look toward Skattebo, Tracy and Singletary as it attempts to improve its ground game. The Giants have struggled to find consistent production on the ground, and Harris’ release creates another opportunity for the remaining backs to establish themselves.
For Harris, the next step will be finding another team willing to give him an opportunity. His experience and previous production could make him an option for a team needing running back depth.
However, he will need to prove that he can return to his previous form after a difficult comeback from injury.
