Will Shipley 2024 NFL Draft Profile
Will Shipley is one of the more unique players at the running back position heading into the 2024 NFL Draft. The former Clemson product has serious talent but where does he stack up in this class of backs? Let’s talk about it right now in this iteration of the 2024 NFL Draft Profile series!
It feels like Shipley was at Clemson forever but that’s not really the case. It only feels like that because he was an instant contributor as a freshman. Typically a good sign for any player. Shipley checks in at 5-foot-11, 206, and was listed as a four star recruit coming out of high school. It was borderline five star status as Shipley was rated as the 4th best running back during the 2021 cycle.
We have no Combine workout for Shipley. He did workout at the Clemson Pro Day but that wasn’t televised so I can’t comment on it. He ran a reported 4.39 at the Clemson Pro Day, which really means he probably would have been in the 4.48 range at the Combine. That’s probably who he is. High 4.4 low 4.5 range. Has a track and lacrosse background in high school.
Shipley is a very versatile player. Brings value in the run, pass, and return game. Might be the best pass catcher in the class at the position. I’m going to go ahead and declare him as the best pass catcher for all of the running backs. The only reason it’s an argument is because Tyrone Tracy Jr (who we covered here) is literally a wide receiver trying to become a running back. Over the last two years, Shipley has 69 receptions for 486 yards and two touchdowns with less than ideal QB play.
Shipley’s best year as a runner came in 2022 when he rushed for 15 touchdowns on a 5.6 YPC clip on 210 attempts. The other years were mostly a case of the volume being a tick down. Phil Mafah was still a part of the mix being a bigger back. Will be a weapon in the return game.
I know we don’t have a Combine tape to work with but one thing that really stands out with Shipley is his ankle flexion. Really good at stick his foot in the ground and giving that shake and bake. Has serious wiggle to his game. Has nice acceleration in short area. Doesn’t really mess around and hits the hole. Speed is more than fine but wouldn’t call him a burner. Won’t be a workhorse for anybody.
Maybe this comp will sound lazy but I think it’s just the most accurate representation of the player. This is Christian McCaffrey Lite. The reduced calories and all. I actually was encouraged by the games this year. I would be willing to pull the trigger somewhere in the 4th round. A bit higher than I’d like for running backs but his versatility pushes him up the board. Can play him in the slot too and be a decoy for defenses. Like the player and should be part of a committee for years to come.
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