Melvin Gordon or Devin Singletary: Who is the better fantasy pick?

Melvin Gordon and Devin Singletary are two interesting running backs who are struggling to prove themselves to their franchises. Gordon was replaced by Javonte Williams (who is out for the season) and isn't playing with confidence for the Denver Broncos. Singletary plays for the Buffalo Bills, who don't use him as often as he would like. As neither has set fantasy leagues alight this season, you are unlikely to play them both. You might be wondering who to start, who to bench and maybe who to trade.

Running backs are the bread and butter of some teams (Indianapolis Colts and New England Patriots) and they are the safety blanket of others (Green Bay Packers). When used correctly, they can even win you championships (Seattle Seahawks). This position could either make or break your fantasy team, so it's a serious business.

We believe that Melvin Gordon is the better pick for your fantasy team.

Here's why:

Why Melvin Gordon is a better pick than Devin Singletary

San Francisco 49ers v Denver Broncos

The crux of the matter is this: Devin Singletary plays for a pass-first offense in Buffalo. Hence, he has significantly fewer touches than Gordon, who will surely get more touches in the rush-first offense in Denver.

Melvin Gordon is a veteran who knows a thing or two about carrying the offensive bulk for his franchise. He is a versatile back who can both rush and catch the ball. He is a handful for a defense and if used properly, can make coordinators look clueless as he pads up his stats with touchdowns.

Devin Singletary is a different proposition. He is significantly shorter than Gordon, but he plays for a better team. Singletary's biggest ability is a turn of pace that lets his juke pass opposing defenses easily. His low center of gravity caters to his playing style, and his elusiveness has been key in keeping the starting running back job in Buffalo.

With Javonte Williams out for the Broncos, the general feeling is that Melvin Gordon is going to be getting the ball a lot. With significantly more touches than Singletary, it seems like a no-brainer. But don't let that lull you, as adding a brain to any decision is worthwhile.

Melvin Gordon is the man in Denver, but by luck more than judgment. Luck, it seems, may be turning against him. Gordon has developed a prclivity for fumbles that is beyond the norm. He has fumbled four times this season, including one that was returned for a TD. He was visibly upset in a press conference after that game and his confidence seems to be low. He then fumbled the ball in Week 5, but a flag saved him on that occasion.

Watch out for Latavius Murray and Mike Boone. Murray was picked up when Williams went down with an ACL injury. He is likely to take some snaps and if he impresses, could threaten Gordon's role. Boone is an explosive third string back, however he is questionable this week. There may be competition for the starting role in Denver, which is something to keep an eye on.

How did Melvin Gordon and Devin Singletary perform last season?

Pittsburgh Steelers v Buffalo Bills

Melvin Gordon rushed for 986 yards and eight rushing touchdowns last season. He also had another two receiving touchdowns. He averaged a total of 10.1 fantasy points for the totality of the 2021 season. Devin Singletary rushed for 870 yards, seven rushing touchdowns and had a further receiving touchdown in the 2021 campaign. He also averaged a total of 8.4 fantasy points for the totality of the season.

How have Melvin Gordon and Devin Singletary performed this season?

Melvin Gordon is playing under a new quarterback in Russell Wilson, so there are bound to be teething problems. The veteran and two-time Pro Bowler has rushed for 193 yards, totaling one touchdown for his efforts. The Broncos currently have a 2-3 record to begin the season.

Devin Singletary does not have the same issue as his quarterback is MVP favorite, Josh Allen. However, he is yet to rush for or receive a touchdown pass. Maybe that is down to the fact that Josh Allen has a tremendous wide receiver corps and prefers to rush the ball himself. It remains to be seen whether Singletary will play a more prominent role in the Bills offense moving forward.