CLEMSON — Running back Will Shipley from Clemson football is officially an NFL rookie after being picked 127th overall by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL draft on Saturday.
Here’s what Shipley brings to Philadelphia, based on our own observations from his tenure at Clemson:
What Will Shipley brings to Philadelphia Eagles in 2024 NFL Draft
Shipley is Clemson’s top offensive prospect in the draft after spending three seasons with the Tigers. The 5-foot-11 back is top 10 in school history in touchdowns (33), 100-yard rushing games (10) and all-purpose yards (4,253). He ran 4.39 seconds in the 40-yard dash at Clemson’s pro day, which would have ranked him third among backs at the combine.
Shipley’s agility and sharp cuts allows him to make defenders miss in space. In the passing game, he can separate from defenders. He has displayed acceleration and multi-sport athleticism throughout his college career that has helped him be the first player in ACC history to be selected as a first-team All-conference honoree in running back, all-purpose and specialist.
Will Shipley’s highlights, strengths, weaknesses at Clemson football
Shipley rushed for a career-high 172 rushing yards and scored two touchdowns against Syracuse on Oct. 22. 2022. Three weeks later vs. Louisville, he had a highlight-reel 25-yard touchdown in the third quarter, leaping over a defender and bouncing off two more to score his 12th touchdown of the season.
Shipley’s value is in his versatility: He can play running back, receiver and on special teams as a kick returner. Some of his weaknesses include lack of strength and power, which are needed as a ball carrier and pass blocker in the NFL.
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Will Shipley’s stats at Clemson football
Across 36 games (27 starts), Shipley recorded:
- 2,747 rushing yards on 526 attempts
- 31 rushing touchdowns
- 602 receiving yards on 85 receptions
- Two receiving touchdowns
Will Shipley’s player comparison in NFL
According to Greg Cosell of the 33rd Team, Shipley is like Aaron Jones, who played at Texas-El Paso and was drafted 182nd overall in the fifth round in 2017 by the Green Bay Packers. Both have similar frames and are capable rushers and receivers that were picked on Day 3.
Derrian Carter covers Clemson athletics for The Greenville News and the USA TODAY Network. Email him at dcarter@gannett.com and follow him on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DerrianCarter00
