Najee Harris is a free agent. The New York Giants released the veteran running back — along with linebacker Jihad Ward — on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, as part of a series of Week 7 roster moves, the team announced, reshaping a backfield that was already drawing trade chatter ahead of the November 10 NFL trade deadline.
In the same round of moves, the Giants signed linebacker Trace Ford from the practice squad to the active roster and added wide receiver Jason Brownlee to the practice squad.
Read the full announcement from Giants.com.
Key facts: Giants release Najee Harris
- Released: RB Najee Harris (Terminated, Vested Veteran) and OLB Jihad Ward, on October 20, 2026
- Added: OLB Trace Ford signed from the practice squad to the active roster; WR Jason Brownlee added to the practice squad
- Context: Week 7 of the 2026 NFL season, with the trade deadline set for November 10
Why did the Giants release Najee Harris?
New York did not spell out a reason — the announcement follows the standard transaction-list format teams use this time of year. But the timing speaks loudly. Harris is a vested veteran, so the move frees both a roster spot and veteran salary as the Giants head into the stretch run. Releasing a veteran back now, rather than holding him through the November 10 deadline, signals the Giants see the backfield differently than they did when they brought Harris in — and it gives Harris, now a free agent, a clear shot to sign elsewhere while he still can.
What the move means before the trade deadline
The release opens two readings: the Giants either believe they already have their answers on the roster, or they are clearing the way for another move before November 10. Trade speculation linking Giants backs to contenders has been circulating, but none of it is confirmed, and the Giants’ own announcement says nothing about trades. The sharper signal is in the shape of the rest of the moves — a linebacker promoted, a receiver stashed on the practice squad — a team rebalancing its depth rather than standing pat.
Frequently asked questions
Is Najee Harris still on the Giants?
No. The Giants released Najee Harris on October 20, 2026, as a terminated vested veteran, making him a free agent able to sign with any team.
When is the 2026 NFL trade deadline?
November 10. The Giants have until then to make any further roster moves this season.
