New York Giants Release Running Back Najee Harris Following Week 6 Loss
The decision comes days after Harris publicly questioned the team's coaching strategy and running back rotation following a 34-27 defeat to the New Orleans Saints.
The New York Giants have released veteran running back Najee Harris after just five games with the franchise, following comments he made criticizing the team's coaching decisions. The roster move comes in the wake of the Giants' 34-27 loss to the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, Oct. 18.
During a post-game interview after the Week 6 defeat, Harris expressed frustration regarding New York's strategy to rotate four different running backs during the contest. The sixth-year tailback finished the game with 11 snaps and four carries, totaling a career-low two yards.
“I don’t think nobody can [get into a rhythm]. And this is not to anything that's the coaching staff or anything. This is just personal, running backs, quarterbacks. It's hard to get in a rhythm with one or two plays,” Harris stated after the game, according to the New York Daily News. “If you're getting a play here and get taken out four series, there's nothing you can do. I don't know. I've never been through this before.”
Giants head coach John Harbaugh addressed Harris' remarks during a press conference on Monday, Oct. 19, explaining that the running back room had not produced at a high level and that no player had secured the role of lead back. Harbaugh emphasized that playing time and rhythm must be earned through performance.
“I've had the same conversation with all the running backs, the receivers, it's no different than any position, but do the most you can with the opportunities you get. Make the most of those opportunities and you're sure to get more opportunities,” Harbaugh said. “So, I get it that you want to get out there and you want to get a rhythm, but that rhythm is earned too and it just hasn't happened yet.”
During his brief tenure with the Giants, Harris appeared in five games with one start, recording 31 rushing attempts for 99 yards and a 3.2-yard average without scoring a touchdown. He also added one reception for five yards.
With Harris removed from the roster, the Giants' remaining running back depth chart features Cam Skattebo, Tyrone Tracy Jr., and Devin Singletary, alongside practice squad player Phil Mafah.
Meanwhile, their opponents from last weekend, the New Orleans Saints, have experienced their own organizational scrutiny. Following a slow start to the season that put the team at 2-4 prior to defeating the Giants, Saints general manager Mickey Loomis addressed public criticism from owner Gayle Benson, asking for patience as the franchise develops its younger players and coaching staff.