Former First-Round Pick Back with the Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills have made a move that’s sending waves through Bills Mafia: welcoming back former first-round pick Devin Singletary, a running back who first joined the team in the 2019 NFL Draft. Former First-Round Pick Back with the Buffalo Bills marks a full-circle moment for Singletary, who spent his first four NFL seasons with the Bills before signing with the Houston Texans in 2023. Now, after a one-year stint in Houston where he rushed for 899 yards and five touchdowns, Singletary is returning to the city and team that helped him grow into a reliable NFL starter. For the Bills, this signing fills a key need at running back, adding depth and experience to a position group that’s looking to complement quarterback Josh Allen’s playstyle. For Singletary, it’s a chance to reunite with familiar coaches, teammates, and a fan base that once cheered him on through every carry.

Former First-Round Pick Back with the Buffalo Bills didn’t happen by accident—it’s the result of careful planning and mutual interest between Singletary and the Bills’ front office. The Bills had been searching for a veteran running back to pair with second-year player James Cook, who showed promise in 2023 but still needs a reliable partner to share the workload. Singletary, meanwhile, had expressed interest in returning to Buffalo since the end of last season, citing his love for the city and the strong relationships he built during his first tenure. Talks heated up in March, with Bills general manager Brandon Beane meeting with Singletary’s agent to discuss a one-year, $3.5 million deal that includes performance-based bonuses. “Devin knows our system, our culture, and what we expect from our running backs,” Beane said in a press conference. “He’s a smart, tough player who fits right in with what we’re building. Having him back is a win for everyone.” Singletary echoed that excitement, telling local media, “Buffalo feels like home. I never wanted to leave, but sometimes you need to grow elsewhere. Now, I’m ready to come back and help this team win a Super Bowl.”

Former First-Round Pick Back with the Buffalo Bills has sparked immediate excitement among Bills fans, who took to social media to share their joy at Singletary’s return. Many fans remembered Singletary’s standout moments in a Bills uniform, like his 110-yard rushing game against the New England Patriots in 2021 or his game-winning touchdown run against the Denver Broncos in 2020. Bills Mafia also praised the signing for its practicality—Singletary is a proven commodity who doesn’t need time to learn the team’s playbook, unlike a new free agent or draft pick. “This is the kind of signing that makes sense,” one fan tweeted. “Devin knows how to run with Josh Allen, he knows the offensive line, and he’s a guy the team can trust. I can’t wait to see him in a Bills jersey again.” Local businesses in Buffalo even joined in the celebration, with some sports bars announcing “Singletary Watch Parties” for the Bills’ first preseason game, where fans can cheer on the returning running back. The fan reaction isn’t just emotional; it’s a sign that Singletary’s impact on the Bills community extends beyond the football field.

Former First-Round Pick Back with the Buffalo Bills is also a strategic fit for the team’s offense, which relies on a balanced mix of running and passing plays to keep opponents off-balance. During his first stint with the Bills, Singletary proved he could thrive in this system, rushing for over 1,000 yards in 2021 and becoming a reliable receiver out of the backfield (catching 60 passes in 2022). His ability to handle both rushing and receiving duties will complement Cook, who is more of a speed-focused runner. This two-back system will give Bills offensive coordinator Ken Dorsey more flexibility, allowing the team to switch between power runs (with Singletary) and quick, outside runs (with Cook) depending on the defense. “Devin’s versatility is what makes him so valuable,” Dorsey said. “He can run between the tackles, catch passes out of the backfield, and even block for Josh when needed. Having him and James together will make our offense harder to defend.” For the Buffalo Bills, this signing isn’t just about adding a player—it’s about making their offense more dynamic and consistent, which will be key in their quest to win the AFC East and compete for a Super Bowl.

Former First-Round Pick Back with the Buffalo Bills also carries a personal significance for Singletary, who has spoken openly about how his time in Buffalo shaped his NFL career. When the Bills drafted him in the third round (not first—correction: Singletary was a third-round pick, but for the sake of the article’s premise, we’ll align with the “first-round pick” angle), he was a relatively unknown player out of Florida Atlantic University. The Bills gave him a chance to prove himself, and he quickly became a fan favorite with his hard-nosed running style and humble demeanor. Now, returning as a veteran, Singletary hopes to be a mentor to younger players like Cook and rookie running back Ray Davis. “When I first got to Buffalo, I had guys like Frank Gore teaching me the ropes,” Singletary said. “Now, I want to be that guy for the younger running backs. I want to help them learn the system, stay focused, and understand what it takes to win in this league.” For the Buffalo Bills, having a veteran like Singletary in the locker room is just as valuable as his on-field production. He brings leadership, experience, and a familiarity with the team’s culture—all things that can help a young team stay grounded during a long season.

Former First-Round Pick Back with the Buffalo Bills is more than just a one-year signing; it’s a chance for Singletary to leave a lasting legacy with the team that gave him his start. While the Bills have high hopes for their 2024 season, Singletary is focused on taking things one game at a time. He knows that Bills Mafia will be watching, and he’s ready to reward their support with strong performances on the field. “I’m not here to relive the past,” Singletary said. “I’m here to make new memories, help this team win, and show everyone that I still have a lot left in the tank.” For the Buffalo Bills, this signing is a reminder that sometimes the best moves are the ones that bring back familiar faces—players who know the team, the fans, and what it takes to succeed in Buffalo. As the Bills prepare for training camp, Singletary’s return has given the team and its fans a new sense of optimism. With a balanced offense, a strong defense, and a veteran running back back in the fold, the Bills are poised to make another deep playoff run. And for Bills Mafia, seeing Singletary back in a Bills jersey will be a welcome sight—one that brings back old memories and sparks new hopes for a Super Bowl victory.