NEW YORK (AP) — The New York Giants released running back Najee Harris on Tuesday, 48 hours after he 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.

Before the injury last year, when he was with the Los Angeles Chargers, Harris had four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons with Pittsburgh.

Jihad Ward also was released Tuesday and fellow linebacker Trace Ford was signed to the active roster off the practice squad.

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