Clemson running back Will Shipley is among the most versatile ball-carriers in the 2024 NFL Draft. Shipley totaled more than 3,000 yards of offense and 33 touchdowns throughout three highly productive campaigns for the Tigers. Shipley should make an immediate impact as a receiving option at the next level.
Shipley also tested extremely well at Clemson’s Pro Day. The Tigers standout reportedly ran a 4.44 40 with a 1.55 10-yard split. Shipley also had a 38.5-inch vertical and 10-foot-2 broad jump.
Shipley should capture a contributing role for himself in a by-committee backfield. Pass-happy offenses appreciate running backs with his skill set. We've identified three ideal team fits for Shipley in the 2024 NFL Draft.
NEW YORK GIANTS
The Giants underwent a significant change at running back this offseason. Saquon Barkley was allowed to test the free agent waters, leading to a lucrative contract with their NFC East rival Philadelphia Eagles. General manager Joe Schoen responded to Barkley's departure by signing Devin Singletary to be the new feature back.
Singletary is a good, not great, pass catcher. Singletary's best projection is as an early-down runner that's spelled on third-and-obvious passing downs. Furthermore, Eric Gray struggled as a rookie, averaging 2.8 yards per carry. Gray also recorded just six receptions for 22 receiving yards. Schoen should add depth and competition. Shipley would be an ideal complement to Singletary's between-the-tackles attitude.
INDIANAPOLIS COLTS
Zack Moss was the unsung hero of the Colts' 2023 offense. Moss rushed for career-highs in yards (794) and touchdowns (5). Moss averaged an effective 4.3 yards per carry and chipped in nearly 200 receiving yards while replacing an injured Jonathan Taylor. Moss parlayed that performance into a bigger opportunity with the Cincinnati Bengals.
Taylor benefited from sharing the backfield with Moss. The in-house options to replace Moss include Evan Hull and Trey Sermon. That feels rather lackluster. Taylor is a workhorse as needed, but offensive-minded head coach Shane Steichen appreciates having multiple backs to rotate through as he sees fit. The Colts should target someone like Shipley between the fifth and seventh rounds.
CAROLINA PANTHERS
Given the proximity and local connection, the Panthers understandably sent a sizable contingent to Clemson's Pro Day. They were among the teams left impressed after watching Shipley perform a 4.44 40-yard dash and 38.5-inch vertical. The Panthers also possess a notable roster need at running back.
Miles Sanders disappointed in the first year of his contract, rushing for career-lows in yards (433) and yards per carry (3.3) while scoring just one touchdown. It's also worth acknowledging the new Panthers regime wasn't the one who signed Sanders. Neither he nor Chuba Hubbard project as Carolina's bellcow moving forward.
The Panthers averaged a 20th-ranked 104.1 rushing yards per contest. That won't appease new head coach Dave Canales, who endured his own run-game struggles as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' offensive coordinator last season. Sophomore quarterback Bryce Young would appreciate having a passing outlet like Shipley coming out of the backfield.
