As a whole, the entire Buffalo Bills offensive might be looking at an improved season in 2020. Stefon Diggs’ addition to the group could directly affect quarterback Josh Allen’s play, plus, is there going to be a trickle-down to the rest of the receivers? That’s the hope, at least.
But NFL.com, using “forward-looking data model” analytics, actually predicted the Bills’ most-improved player next season as a guy that could be a bit of a surprise to some. The player tabbed as that is running back Devin Singletary.
Some think Singletary might not jump off the charts next season because of the addition running back Zack Moss via the NFL Draft. But NFL.com made a case for Singletary.
Here’s why, according to football analytics expert Cynthia Frelund:
With Frank Gore now a Jet, this is Singletary’s moment to show out. His ability to break tackles and move the chains was the key to his rookie campaign, as he gained 10-plus yards on 23.3 percent of his rushes outside the tackles in 2019 (the highest rate among backs with a minimum of 60 such rushes, per Next Gen Stats). He projects to see a big jump in production, even with 2020 third-round pick Zack Moss competing for snaps.
While the passing game is the real place so many observers of the Bills are hoping to see some improvement, let’s consider the running game. First, there’s that trickle-down. Other receivers such as John Brown should see less coverage on them because of Diggs. But in that same light, if opposing defenses see Diggs as the game-changer, then that could take some eyes off of Singletary. Especially considering over the past few seasons the Bills have been a run-first offense.
In addition, even with Moss, there could be more touches for Singletary in 2020. Why? Because 16 is greater than 12. Singletary had a slow start to his rookie season because of a hamstring injury keeping him sidelined. If he stays healthy, he could be primed for an improved year as NFL.com projects.
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