When the Philadelphia Eagles signed Saquon Barkley, the NFL world knew they were getting a generational talent. The Offensive Player of the Year and rushing champion has been nothing short of electric, dominating defenses with nearly 500 touches in the 2024 season, including playoffs. But behind the superstar lurks a rising force, a player even Barkley himself is hyping up as the next big thing: Will Shipley, the Eagles’ 2024 fourth-round draft pick out of Clemson.
Once an afterthought, Shipley is stepping out of the shadows and into the spotlight. With Kenneth Gainwell’s departure in the offseason, the second-year running back has ascended to the No. 2 spot behind Barkley, and the All-Pro isn’t shy about singing his praises. “I don’t think ‘maybe’ he can succeed,” Barkley declared on Wednesday. “I think he definitely can. He’s a really good back. Great hands, great feet, can run routes.”
Shipley’s versatility was his calling card at Clemson, where he racked up over 3,000 yards from scrimmage in just three seasons. Known as a dynamic receiving back, his ability to catch passes and run crisp routes made him a nightmare for college defenses. But it’s not just his athleticism that’s turning heads in Philadelphia—it’s his football I.Q. “Smart, he always was smart,” Barkley said with a grin. “I hate to say this, but he’s probably the smartest back in the room. It kinda pisses me off how smart he is.”
That intelligence, paired with his explosive skill set, could make Shipley a critical piece of the Eagles’ backfield puzzle. After Barkley’s grueling 2024 campaign, Philadelphia is keen to avoid overworking their star. Enter Shipley, whose limited rookie season (34 touches) belies his potential to be a game-changer. If he can deliver, the Eagles could boast one of the NFL’s most formidable running back tandems—a superstar and a cerebral prodigy who’s ready to shine.
From a fourth-round pick to a potential star, Will Shipley is no longer an afterthought. With Barkley’s endorsement and a new role as the No. 2 back, the “3,000-Yard Prodigy” is poised to stun the NFL. Watch out—this is just the beginning.