By STEPHEN WHYNO
NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Giants released running back Najee Harris on Tuesday, 48 hours after the former Antioch High star started but had just two carries for 4 yards in a 34-27 loss to New Orleans.
In the locker room afterward, Harris was critical of his role with the team, saying it was impossible for anyone to get into a rhythm without a steady workload.
Coach John Harbaugh, around the same time, voiced his displeasure that no one had stepped up to be the lead running back. Told Monday of Harris’ comments, Harbaugh said he understood the sentiment.
“Also understand that that’s earned,” Harbaugh said. “I respect that he said that. I mean, I get it. Shoot, that’s how we all want it. That’s for sure, and I respect that he would want that.”
Harris, who is coming off a torn left Achilles tendon and signed with the Giants late in training camp, rushed for 99 yards in five games this season, an average of 3.2 yards an attempt.
The 28-year-old started against the Saints on Sunday when Harbaugh and his staff reduced Cam Skattebo’s role after the second-year running back fumbled in overtime at Washington the previous week. It is unclear how the Giants plan to split the responsibilities among Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy and Devin Singletary this weekend at Houston.
New York Giants running back Najee Harris (23) defends against New Orleans Saints linebacker Cameron Jordan (94) during the first half of an NFL football game in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants running back Najee Harris (23) defends against New Orleans Saints linebacker Cameron Jordan (94) during the first half of an NFL football game in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston (19) hands the ball off to Giants running back Najee Harris (23) during the second half of an NFL football game against the New Orleans Saints in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants running back Najee Harris (23) runs the ball against Tennessee Titans cornerback Cor’Dale Flott, right, during the second half of an NFL football game in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Sept. 27, 2026. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
New York Giants quarterback Jameis Winston (19) hands the ball off to Giants running back Najee Harris (23) against the Arizona Cardinals during an NFL football game, in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 4, 2026. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
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New York Giants running back Najee Harris (23) defends against New Orleans Saints linebacker Cameron Jordan (94) during the first half of an NFL football game in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 18, 2026. (AP Photo/Adam Hunger)
Before the injury last year, when he was with the Los Angeles Chargers, Harris had four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons with Pittsburgh.
Former Oakland Raiders second-round pick Jihad Ward also was released Tuesday and fellow linebacker Trace Ford was signed to the active roster off the practice squad.