Should new Giants RB feel insulted by GM Joe Schoen’s recent comments?

New York Giants running back Devin Singletary was the latest hot topic on the most recent episode of Hard Knocks, and what was said about him may not have been delivered as smoothly as intended.

Giants general manager Joe Schoen had this to say about his newest bell cow when touching on how he can help the team win in 2024 and beyond (h/t Will Riggs of Athlon Sports’ Eagles Today):

“He was a guy we had on our radar the last four years,” Schoen said. “He’s been the leading rusher on whatever team he’s been on. The last four years, those teams have won a playoff game. So, he’s good enough to win with. He’s healthy, he’s durable, and he’s good enough to win playoff games.

Did Giants GM Joe Schoen fail to speak life into his running back Devin Singletary?

Yes, Schoen acknowledged Singletary’s workload and deliverance on it on his prior teams, as well as his playoff success, but “good enough” may have come across as if there’s a lack of absolute confidence that their marquee offseason signee can fill former franchise RB Saquon Barkley’s shoes next season.

A reply of “it’s good enough” upon revealing the restaurant you booked reservations at to celebrate your loved one’s graduation would likely make one think twice. The same could be said here, though ultimately, the team signing and paying the Florida native $16.5 million over the next three years speaks loudest.

It is a true thing that the FAU product has yet to amass 1,000 yards rushing in any of his five seasons in the league so far. Singletary has come awfully close on a couple occasions, though. In 2023, he gained 898 rush yards and two seasons prior, 870. However, he’s only reached the end zone more than five times in one campaign — the 2021 season, where he notched seven. The Giants need a ball-carrier that can convert on 1st and goal in short yardage and also make plays in the open field to reach the end zone. That indictment on Singletary is one he will have to work to rectify in his debut season with the Giants.

Giants could position Singletary for 1K yards off of his strengths and weaknesses

When taking a closer look at his effectiveness, the 26-year-old gained 2.6 yards per carry under center as compared to 4.7 yards out of the shotgun. Moreover, against the base front three-man rush, Singletary mustered up 3.6 yards each time he touched the football. There are ups and downs to his production against a wide variety of defenses, but he may have something to prove in 2024 if he wants to be more than just “good enough” for his front office. A 1,000-yard season would make a statement.

While Schoen may have leaned toward pragmatism and objectivity in his assessment, his comments might’ve suggested that the Giants can win… the bare minimum with their new featured back. All in all, next season will set all records straight.