Many football fans have wondered if Devin Singletary, the running back who played for the Buffalo Bills from 2019 to 2022, is related to Mike Singletary, the Hall of Fame linebacker who played for the Chicago Bears from 1981 to 1992. The answer is no, they are not related by blood or marriage. However, they do share some interesting connections and similarities that make them worthy of comparison.
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Devin Singletary: A Rising Star in Buffalo
Devin Singletary was drafted by the Buffalo Bills with the 74th overall pick in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He joined a backfield with veterans LeSean McCoy, Frank Gore, and T. J. Yeldon, but earned a prominent role with the Bills after McCoy was released as part of final preseason cuts
Singletary quickly showed his talent and versatility as a runner and receiver, earning the nickname “Motor” for his relentless style of play. He led the team in rushing yards in his rookie season with 775 yards on 151 carries (5.1 yards per carry) and added 29 receptions for 194 yards and two touchdowns. He also helped the Bills reach the playoffs for the second time in three years
In his second season, Singletary improved his numbers to 956 rushing yards on 156 carries (6.1 yards per carry) and 38 receptions for 269 yards and four touchdowns. He also formed a dynamic duo with rookie Zack Moss, who added 481 rushing yards and four touchdowns on 112 carries. Together, they powered the Bills to a 13-3 record, an AFC East title, and an appearance in the AFC Championship Game
Singletary’s third season was hampered by injuries and competition from Moss and free agent signing James Cook, who led the team in rushing with 789 yards and six touchdowns on 165 carries. Singletary still managed to contribute 647 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 144 carries and 34 receptions for 212 yards and one touchdown. He also scored a crucial touchdown in the Bills’ wild card win over the Indianapolis Colts
However, after the season, Singletary became a free agent and decided to sign with the Houston Texans on a one-year, $3.75 million deal He joined a crowded backfield that included David Johnson, Phillip Lindsay, Mark Ingram II, and Rex Burkhead.
Mike Singletary: A Legend in Chicago
Mike Singletary was drafted by the Chicago Bears with the 38th overall pick in the second round of the 1981 NFL Draft. He joined a defense that featured stars like Dan Hampton, Richard Dent, Steve McMichael, Otis Wilson, Wilber Marshall, Gary Fencik, and Dave Duerson. He quickly established himself as one of the best middle linebackers in the league, earning the nickname “Samurai Mike” for his intensity and leadership.
Singletary was a key member of the Bears’ dominant defense that led the team to a Super Bowl XX victory over the New England Patriots in 1985. He was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year twice (1985 and 1988) and selected to ten Pro Bowls and seven All-Pro teams. He also recorded 1,488 tackles, 19 sacks, seven interceptions, and 12 fumble recoveries in his career
Singletary retired after the 1992 season and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1998. He later became a coach for several teams, most notably serving as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers from 2008 to 2010.
The Connection Between Devin and Mike Singletary
While Devin and Mike Singletary are not related by blood or marriage, they do share some connections that make them interesting to compare.
First of all, they both played college football at Florida schools: Devin at Florida Atlantic University and Mike at Baylor University (which was then located in Waco, Florida). They both excelled at their respective programs and earned several accolades and awards.
Secondly, they both wore number 50 for their NFL teams: Devin for the Bills and Mike for the Bears. They both chose this number to honor their fathers, who also wore it when they played football.
Thirdly, they both have similar playing styles: Devin is known for his agility, vision, balance, elusiveness, and toughness as a runner; Mike is known for his speed, strength, intelligence, instincts, and ferocity as a tackler. They both have a knack for making big plays and inspiring their teammates.
Finally, they both have a connection to the Houston Texans: Devin signed with them in 2023, while Mike coached them as a defensive assistant from 2016 to 2018.
Conclusion
Devin Singletary and Mike Singletary are two of the best players to ever wear number 50 in the NFL. They are not related by blood or marriage, but they do share some interesting connections and similarities that make them worthy of comparison. They both played college football at Florida schools, wore number 50 for their NFL teams, have similar playing styles, and have a connection to the Houston Texans. They are both examples of excellence and passion for the game of football.
