There’s been a steady drumbeat of concern regarding the New York Giants’ backfield ever since Saquon Barkley left for the rival Philadelphia Eagles. The latest voice adding to that chorus is former NFL running back Maurice Jones-Drew, who recently ranked Devin Singletary of the Giants as the worst starting running back in the league.

Jones-Drew’s ranking, which places Singletary at the very bottom of his list of 32 starting running backs, is sure to raise eyebrows among Giants fans. Here’s what Jones-Drew had to say:

“Singletary was fine in Houston last season, posting career highs in carries and yards, but he won’t demand attention from opposing defenses. Plus, I question whether New York did enough to boost its offensive line. Big Blue’s run game faces an uphill battle.”

Evaluating Singletary’s performance

Devin Singletary’s 2023 season stats tell a story of consistency rather than spectacular play. Over 17 games, Singletary carried the ball 216 times for 898 rushing yards, averaging 4.2 yards per carry, and found the end zone four times. He also added 30 receptions for 193 yards. Those numbers are respectable, especially considering Singletary shared the backfield and was in a talented offense in Houston.

However, Jones-Drew’s critique goes beyond just the numbers. His primary concern is whether Singletary can be the focal point of a run game that keeps defenses honest. Singletary has never been the kind of explosive, game-changing back that strikes fear into opponents. His strength lies in his reliability and ability to contribute consistently, which may not be enough to carry the Giants’ run game on his own.

The offensive line question

Jones-Drew’s doubts about the Giants’ offensive line also add context to his ranking. The Giants’ O-line has been a point of concern for years, often blamed for the team’s struggles in both the run and pass game. While the front office has made efforts to improve the line, including bringing in new players like Jon Runyan Jr., Jermaine Eluemunor and Greg Van Roten, Singletary’s production could be hampered by a line that still has question marks. If the line doesn’t gel, Singletary might struggle to find the lanes he needs to be effective.

Reasons for optimism

Despite the criticisms, there are reasons to believe that Singletary could thrive in New York. The soon-to-be 27-year-old running back is still in his prime, with plenty of tread left on his tires. He’s shown that he can be a reliable contributor, and he’s optimistic about the offense under head coach Brian Daboll.

Singletary’s familiarity with Daboll’s system from their time together in Buffalo is also a positive. Under Daboll’s guidance, the Bills made the playoffs in each season that Singletary was part of the team, and the Giants are no doubt hoping that “Motor” will get running once more in Daboll’s scheme.

A fair assessment?

While Singletary’s ranking at the bottom might seem harsh, there is a basis for Jones-Drew’s skepticism. Singletary is a solid back, but he lacks the explosiveness that can turn a good play into a great one. Additionally, the Giants’ offensive line is still a work in progress, and that could limit Singletary’s effectiveness.

However, with Daboll’s offensive system and Singletary’s proven ability to produce in the right environment, there’s potential for Singletary to surprise the critics. At just 27 years old, he’s far from finished, and if the Giants can figure out their offensive line issues, Singletary could prove to be a valuable asset.