The Philadelphia Eagles made a pick in the fourth round of the NFL draft, taking running back Will Shipley from Clemson at No. 127. Shipley had a successful college career, with his best season in 2022 when he rushed for over 1,100 yards and 15 touchdowns. He is known for being a dual-threat running back who can catch the ball out of the backfield and has drawn comparisons to Christian McCaffrey. Shipley likes to make plays and is versatile in his playing style.
In Philly, Shipley will join a running back room that includes Saquon Barkley and Kenny Gainwell. The Eagles have signed Barkley to a three-year deal and Gainwell is entering his fourth year under contract. Shipley brings a unique skill set to the team and is confident in his abilities as an all-purpose back. He also has experience as a kick returner, adding depth to the Eagles’ special teams unit.
The Eagles traded down twice before selecting Shipley, acquiring draft picks for future years in the process. Shipley was not able to compete at the 2024 NFL Combine due to a knee injury but impressed at the Clemson pro day with his speed and athleticism. His 40-yard dash time would have ranked among the top running backs at the Combine, showcasing his quickness and explosiveness.
According to NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein, Shipley is a versatile running back with potential as both a runner, receiver, and kick returner. He has the speed to break away from defenders and the agility to navigate through traffic. While he may need to work on becoming a more complete third-down option, his athleticism and skill level suggest he could develop into a productive RB2 in the NFL. The Eagles’ selection of Shipley marks their first running back pick since Gainwell in 2021 and the highest running back pick since Miles Sanders in 2019.
Shipley is the first Clemson player selected by the Eagles since K’Von Wallace in 2020, adding another connection between the two teams. The Eagles have been strategic in their draft picks, targeting players who can contribute immediately and fill specific needs on the roster. With Shipley’s addition, the Eagles hope to bolster their running back depth and add another dynamic playmaker to their offense. Subscribe to Eagle Eye for more updates on the team and their latest draft selections.
