The New England Patriots may look to add a veteran running back as injuries create uncertainty in their backfield. Najee Harris, a former Pittsburgh Steelers standout who topped 1,000 rushing yards in each of his first four NFL seasons, has been suggested as a potential fit.
The 28-year-old remains a free agent after the New York Giants released him on October 20. His name was raised as an option following the NFL trade deadline, as New England prepares to face the Detroit Lions without TreVeyon Henderson and monitors Rhamondre Stevenson’s knee injury.
## Why Harris Could Fit in New England
Harris could offer the Patriots a proven option between the tackles, particularly in short-yardage and goal-line situations. He earned Pro Bowl honors as a rookie in 2021 and spent his first four seasons with Pittsburgh, recording 4,312 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns.
His recent seasons have been less productive. After signing with the Los Angeles Chargers in 2025, Harris tore his Achilles tendon in his third game. He joined the Giants in August 2026 but finished with 99 rushing yards on 31 carries over five games. New York released him after he voiced frustration with his limited workload.
Questions remain about Harris’ explosiveness, but his experience could make him a depth option. He has also been proposed as a possible No. 2 behind Corey Kiner, who has averaged 4.9 yards per carry in limited action. Lan Larison and practice-squad running back Terrell Jennings are other options for New England.
## Patriots Face Backfield Questions Against Detroit
Henderson is sidelined by illness for Sunday’s game against Detroit. Stevenson sustained a knee injury against the Green Bay Packers on November 8, but returned to limited practice participation on Thursday and Friday, leaving open the possibility that he could play.
Head coach Mike Vrabel praised Stevenson’s determination while discussing the injury, saying the team looks for players who are “looking for ways in as opposed to ways out.”
Even if Stevenson is available, the Patriots have limited depth behind their primary backs. Harris would bring more NFL starting experience than the team’s younger reserve options, but there has been no reported contact between him and New England. For now, the connection is only a suggested fit.
With a Week 11 bye approaching, the Patriots have time to evaluate their backfield before deciding whether to pursue veteran help.
