The New York Giants Release Najee Harris After Criticisms

The New York Giants continue their search for a reliable feature back, determining that Najee Harris will not be part of their future plans. Only two days after Harris openly criticized the coaching staff’s game strategy following a disappointing performance, the Giants made the decision to release him.

Harris joined the Giants during training camp after Tyrone Tracy experienced difficulties on the field. He was given the starting role on Sunday, following the decision to largely bench Cam Skattebo due to a costly fumble the previous week. Despite this chance, Harris struggled as did Skattebo, who was limited to just six snaps without touching the ball.

Najee Harris No. 23 of the New York Giants prepares during the second quarter of an NFL game against the Los Angeles Rams at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on Sept. 21, 2026.

A rotation comprising Harris, Tracy, and Devin Singletary couldn’t energize the Giants’ running game. Quarterback JJ McCarthy and wide receiver Darnell Mooney ended up as the team’s leading rushers with 26 and 20 yards respectively. Coach John Harbaugh claimed, “Nobody’s really taken the bull by the horns.”

Harris expressed frustration about being unable to establish a rhythm, noting, “I don’t think anybody can with one or two plays. This isn’t against the coaching staff, it’s simply a challenge for running backs and quarterbacks. Without consistent play, establishing rhythm is tough.”

Najee Harris No. 23 of the New York Giants carries the ball against the Tennessee Titans during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Sept. 27, 2026.

Harris has so far managed 99 rushing yards on 31 carries, averaging 3.2 yards per attempt. This shows a significant drop from his past four 1,000-yard seasons when he entered the NFL. His career, which started five years ago, initially saw him drafted in the first round from Alabama by the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he excelled for four seasons as their main running back. His stint with the Los Angeles Chargers was hindered by injuries.

This season, Giants running backs are averaging only 3.4 yards per carry, with Skattebo slightly ahead with 3.6. Out of his total 294 rushing yards, 81 were achieved against the Dallas Cowboys during Week 1, followed by less impressive outputs of 36, 60, 58, and 59 yards in subsequent games.

Najee Harris, No. 23 of the New York Giants, carries the ball against the Arizona Cardinals during the fourth quarter at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on Oct. 4, 2026.

Though Harbaugh is awaiting someone to step up, Harris will not be in that equation any longer. The Giants are set to face the Houston Texans before entering their Week 8 bye.