Will Shipley, the Clemson running back, is turning heads with his versatile skill set, and Justin Melo of The Draft Network believes he'd be a perfect fit for the Indianapolis Colts. With Zack Moss leaving the Colts, there's a gap in the backup running back position, and Shipley could fill that void nicely. He's not just a ground-pounder; Shipley can impact both the running and passing games, giving Shane Steichen's offense a dynamic boost.
Standing at 5-11 and weighing 206 pounds, Shipley is built for NFL success. His impressive Relative Athletic Score of 9.61 highlights his athleticism, ticking many boxes on the Colts' draft checklist for running backs. Shipley's track record is solid too, with 526 carries over three seasons, averaging 5.2 yards per carry and scoring 31 touchdowns, including 15 in 2022. He's not just a runner; Shipley has 104 career targets, averaging 7.0 yards per catch with two touchdowns, showing his versatility in space. In 2023, he saw 16 percent of his snaps lined up in the slot, showcasing his adaptability and skill set.
But Shipley isn't just an offensive weapon; he's also a threat in the return game, with 35 kick return attempts in college, averaging 26.0 yards per return, adding another dimension to his game.
Lance Zierlein of NFL.com had high praise for Shipley in his pre-draft scouting report: "Versatile running back with talent as a runner, receiver, and kick returner. Shipley possesses early speed, allowing him to whip through creases and outrun linebackers to the corner. He’s a flexible runner who reads up to the linebackers and curates his runs with a feel for both defensive positioning and run lane development. He can balance through contact but is unlikely to move NFL piles."
The Colts currently have Tyler Goodson, Evan Hull, and Trey Sermon behind Jonathan Taylor, making a strong argument against drafting another running back. Hull, though coming off an injury, was heavily involved in the passing game at Northwestern. Sermon and Goodson have shown promise, but there are concerns about their overall experience, especially in the passing game.
Despite the depth, the Colts could benefit from adding competition, especially if a talent like Shipley is available on draft day. As the 11th-ranked running back in the class and 139th overall prospect, Shipley could provide the Colts with a dynamic option behind Taylor, adding depth and versatility to their backfield.
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