With the 2024 NFL Draft now in the books, it’s time to dive into the film rooms to analyze the Philadelphia Eagles’ rookie class. Over the next few weeks, I will be breaking down all nine draft picks as well as some undrafted free agents. While many scouting reports may sound similar, I aim to include film clips to provide evidence and will assess how each player fits with the Eagles.
Today, let’s take a closer look at Will Shipley, a running back prospect from Clemson. Shipley performed better than expected in his RAS (Relative Athletic Score) testing, scoring a 9.61 out of 10. Known for his versatility, Shipley excels as a receiver, particularly in the screen game and open field situations. His strong short-area speed and elusiveness make him a threat to defenders, often showcasing quick footwork to evade tackles.
One of Shipley’s notable strengths is his consistent production over three years at a prestigious program like Clemson. He demonstrates a keen understanding of the zone run game, especially outside zone plays where he shows excellent vision. Additionally, Shipley displays decent contact balance and power, allowing him to gain extra yardage in short-yardage situations. He also has a tenacious playing style and is willing to block, making him a valuable asset in various offensive schemes.
However, Shipley does have some areas for improvement. He has struggled with fumbles, with four in his most recent season and eight in his collegiate career. Additionally, he has shown lapses in pass-catching, leading to some drops. While he has good overall speed, his long-distance explosiveness may not be at an elite level. There are also concerns about his consistency in pass protection, which could impact his ability to stay on the field for third-down situations.
In terms of fit with the Eagles, Shipley’s strengths align well with the team’s offensive strategy. With Kellen Moore likely to incorporate outside zone runs into the playbook, Shipley’s proficiency in this area could be a valuable asset. His skills as a receiver also make him a versatile option in the passing game, a trait that Moore typically values in running backs.
Despite his strengths, Shipley may not be a traditional feature back due to his size and lack of elite traits. He projects more as a solid backup running back who can contribute in various facets of the game. While some may have preferred a more explosive option in the fourth round, Shipley’s reliability and fit within Moore’s offensive scheme make him a sensible choice for the Eagles.
Looking ahead, Shipley could occupy the RB2 or RB3 role for the Eagles, depending on how he performs in training camp and preseason. With competition from players like Kenny Gainwell, Shipley will need to demonstrate his value on special teams and show improvement in ball security to secure a significant role in the rotation.
Ultimately, Shipley’s success with the Eagles will hinge on his ability to address his weaknesses and take advantage of his strengths within the team’s offensive system. While he may not be a flashy pick, his versatility and fit within the scheme make him a promising addition to the roster. Thank you for reading and stay tuned for more film breakdowns on the Philadelphia Eagles’ rookie class.
