On December 29, 2023, junior running back Will Shipley and the Clemson Tigers met Ray Davis and the Kentucky Wildcats in the Gator Bowl. Two of the greatest running backs in the 2024 NFL Draft class competed in their last college game.
Davis was the only player to score a touchdown, rushing 13 times for 63 yards and catching four passes for six yards. Shipley carried 11 times for 29 yards and caught two catches for nine more, but he also gained 94 kickoff return yards, for a total of 132 all-purpose yards. Most importantly for Shipley, Clemson won 38-35.
Shipley departed the game with an injury, but his overall performance confirmed what he most likely already knew: he was headed to the NFL.
Clemson Tigers Running Back Will Shipley Declared for the 2024 NFL Draft Days After the Gator Bowl
Five days after the Gator Bowl, Shipley announced his plan to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft. In a greeting to Clemson fans, he wrote
“To the Clemson family, thank you for everything. The decision to attend Clemson University was the best I’ve ever made. My Clemson experience has given me enduring advantages and connections, confidence to thrive in any field, and admiration for greatness. I’ve decided to enter the 2024 NFL Draft. I’m grateful for the past three years and eager to see what the future brings. Although I am taking the next step in my career, I will always be a Clemson Tiger.”
At the time of his announcement, Shipley was considered the second-best running back in the 2024 NFL Draft class behind Ohio State’s TreVeyon Henderson.
Clemson Tigers Running Back Will Shipley Makes a Bold Declaration at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine
Shipley met with the media on Saturday in Indianapolis, Indiana, as part of the NFL Scouting Combine. During the session, he brazenly declared:
“I am the number one all-purpose back in this draft.”
He exudes confidence, which is good because second-guessing has no place in the NFL.
In terms of his announcement, NFL Draft experts seem to agree with him. According to Ian Cummings of The Draft Network, Shipley is among the most versatile running back prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft.
According to his rankings, Shipley might be drafted in the second or third round.
Will Shipley’s Career Stats with the Clemson Tigers
Year Carries Yards TD’s Rec Yards TD’s KR Yards TD’s 2021 149 739 11 16 116 0 14 380 0 2022 210 1,182 15 38 242 0 13 324 0 2023 167 827 5 31 244 2 7 200 0
