Devin Singletary Keeps Favorite Uniform Number With Giants Despite Saquon Barkley Connection

The running back explained why he chose No. 26.

The New York Giants lost Saquon Barkley in NFL free agency, as the veteran running back signed with the rival Philadelphia Eagles on Monday. Instead, the Giants brought in running back Devin Singletary, who is replacing Barkley on the roster in more ways than one.

At his introductory press conference, Singletary revealed that he would be wearing the No. 26, the same number Barkley wore over the past six seasons. However, it is not meant to troll Barkley, as Singletary maintains that he just always wants to wear No. 26 wherever he plays.

“I had 26 since I came into the league, so that’s the number I’m sticking with,” Singletary said.

Devin Singletary will be wearing number 26 with the Giants pic.twitter.com/LuhSaqEphY

— Giants Videos (@SNYGiants) March 14, 2024

Previously, Singletary spent four years with the Buffalo Bills and one year with the Houston Texans, donning No. 26 every season. With Barkley no longer on the Giants, No. 26 instantly became available for Singletary without him having to negotiate for it with a teammate.

While Singletary’s choice isn’t meant to be a shot at Barkley, it certainly adds more to the Giants-Eagles rivalry after Barkley switched sides. 

Last season, Singletary tallied a career-high 898 rushing yards and four touchdowns in 17 games, while Barkley logged 962 rushing yards and six rushing touchdowns in 14 contests.