Nov 9, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; New York Giants defensive tackle Roy Robertson-Harris (95) leaves the field after losing to the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
Nov 9, 2025; Chicago, Illinois, USA; New York Giants defensive tackle Roy Robertson-Harris (95) leaves the field after losing to the Chicago Bears at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images
May 23, 2026, 10:30 AM CUT
Major Blow for Giants As Star Player Ruled Out for Season Following Concerning Update
The New York Giants’ defensive line suffered another setback on Thursday.
After trading Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals, the Giants may have to navigate their 2026 season without their defensive tackle, Roy Robertson-Harris.
"Defensive tackle Roy Robertson-Harris tore his Achilles tendon during the Giants’ OTA practice, according to multiple reports," Fox news reported Friday. "Robertson-Harris suffered the injury while rushing the passer in an 11-on-11 period."
According to The Athletic, reported that the injury occurred as he was rushing a passer during their 11-on-11 drills. Robertson-Harris was examined by medical staff and then taken to the facility.
Sep 28, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants defensive end Roy Robertson-Harris (95) reacts during the second half against the Los Angeles Chargers at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
Sep 28, 2025; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; New York Giants defensive end Roy Robertson-Harris (95) reacts during the second half against the Los Angeles Chargers at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images
As per Ryan Canfield of Fox Sports, the 32-year-old Robertson-Harris was in line for a big role after Dexter Lawrence moved away from the Giants during the offseason. He came a close second after Lawrence in defensive tackles with 17 starts and 56% snaps last year.
Roy Robertson-Harris is a nine-year NFL veteran who has appeared in 134 games with 79 starts. In that time, he has recorded 246 tackles, 73 quarterback hits and 19 sacks.
The 32-year-old was with the Chicago Bears (2017-2020), Jacksonville Jaguars (2021-2024) and the Seattle Seahawks (2024) before signing with the New Year Giants last year.
Patricia Traina of the New York Giants on SI reported that following Roy’s Achilles injury, the team is prepping DJ Reader, Shelby Harris, Sam Roberts, Leki Fotu and Zacch Pickens.
The Giants return to their OTA practice No.4 on Tuesday. And although the team hasn’t made any official announcement yet, Robertson-Harris is likely out for the 2026 season.
The Giants are reportedly now counting on DJ Reader and Shelby Harris to hold things down in the interior of their defensive line in Robertson-Harris’ absence.
Robertson-Harris Injury Threatens Giants’ $9M Defensive Investment
There couldn't be worse timing for the New York Giants, who just traded Dexter Lawrence II to the Bengals. With the Lawrence exit, Robertson-Harris, who started all 17 games last season, was expected to lead the interior line again in 2026.
The DT had signed a two-year, $9 million deal with the Giants before the 2025 season. He brought in good numbers with 35 tackles, three for loss, and six quarterback hits.
After the Lawrence trade, the Giants added DJ Reader and Shelby Harris to their defensive line in free agency.
The Giants’ defensive tackle group was already weak after the Lawrence trade and now with Robertson-Harris’ injury, they’ll have to rely on a mix of young players and veterans.
With uncertainty continuing to pile up on their defensive front, the New York Giants now face added pressure to fill the gaps and bolster their defense before the 2026 NFL season begins.
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Written by
Naomi Grace
Edited by
Shubhi Rathore