Giants DL Roy Robertson-Harris tears Achilles at OTAs, out for 2026

New York Giants defensive lineman Roy Robertson-Harris tore his Achilles during Thursday’s Organized Team Activities in East Rutherford, New Jersey, according to people familiar with the matter. The injury occurred at an indoor session where he was taking first-team reps. Robertson-Harris, 32, is expected to miss the 2026 season while he recovers. The Giants were practicing indoors because of rain, team sources said.

The setback hits a defensive front already in transition following the trade of Dexter Lawrence II to the Cincinnati Bengals last month. Robertson-Harris was projected to be a key starter on the interior after opening all 17 games last season. He recorded 35 tackles, including three for loss, and six quarterback hits in 2025.

Robertson-Harris was in the second and final season of a two-year contract worth $9.25 million. His availability and veteran presence were expected to anchor a group blending established additions with younger linemen. Losing him this early in the offseason program complicates the depth chart as the Giants build toward training camp.

Reworked defensive front faces new void

New York has moved quickly in recent weeks to reshape the defensive interior, signing veterans DJ Reader, Shelby Harris and Leki Fotu after the draft. The staff has also been banking on second-year lineman Darius Alexander and sixth-round pick Bobby Jamison-Travis to take on defined roles. Robertson-Harris’ absence creates additional snaps for that group and raises the importance of summer development for the younger players.

People briefed on the situation said Robertson-Harris reached for the back of his right leg early in the workout before exiting. The session’s move indoors due to weather limited field space and adjusted practice plans, but the injury occurred during standard team work, per the same people.

Depth chart decisions ahead

Without Robertson-Harris, the Giants will likely lean more heavily on their new veterans while evaluating rotational combinations through the remainder of OTAs and mandatory minicamp. Reader and Harris bring experience as interior anchors, while Fotu offers size and early-down support. How quickly Alexander and Jamison-Travis adapt could shape snap distribution entering camp.

Robertson-Harris was entering his 10th NFL season and has appeared in 134 games with 79 starts since going undrafted out of UTEP. He has 246 career tackles and 19 sacks across stints with the Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, Seattle Seahawks and the Giants. His track record as a reliable starter underscores the significance of his absence for New York’s interior defense.

The Giants will monitor internal options and player health through the summer, with potential roster moves possible as the preseason approaches. Further updates on Robertson-Harris’ recovery timeline are expected closer to training camp.