The Eagles RB is excited to join Saquon Barkley in the backfield and learn from one of the best backs in the league.
The Eagles traded back twice before ultimately making a pick on the final day of the draft, but they finally made the call to running back Will Shipley. He spoke to reporters shortly after learning his fate, and the RB couldn’t be more excited to be headed to Philly.
Shipley admitted he’s “doing much better now” after he finally got the call on Day 3. He explained that he was told to expect to go sometime between the third and fifth rounds, depending on how the RBs came off the board. But, he was still very eager to hear his name called, so it was tough waiting until Saturday.
“When the call came from Philadelphia, I could not have been more ecstatic.”
He later said that her went to bed Friday night, not mad, but a little frustrated, but now that he’s been drafted by the Eagles, he couldn’t be happier with how things panned out.
The RB noted his older brother actually plays lacrosse at UPenn in Philadelphia, so he’s in Philly all the time to catch as many of his games as he can. Shipley said he’s developed a love for the city.
“So, it could not be a better spot for my family and I.
And, during the pre-draft process, had great meetings with Coach Singleton at the Combine and was able to do a private workout with him at Clemson.”
Shipley oozed excitement for being drafted by the Eagles and can’t wait to get to work.
The incoming rookie went on to talk about his versatility and pass-catching ability, citing his experience playing lacrosse and other sports helping his footwork. He noted that sports were big in his house growing up, so he played basketball and ran track, in addition to lacrosse and football. All of these sports allowed him to develop as a well-rounded player.
Shipley was asked about Saquon Barkley, and he was obviously aware of how great Barkley was at Penn State, and he can’t wait to learn from the veteran.
“I’m a huge Saquon fan. He actually reached out to me pretty quickly after I got drafted, just a couple minutes, so I’m so excited to get to just share a backfield with all those guys. I know that I’m gonna go in, I’m gonna work my butt off, and I’m gonna do whatever the team needs me to do to be successful.”
He later talked about how much he wants to study Barkley, and how he doesn’t take this opportunity to learn from one of the best running backs in the league lightly. Shipley wants to embrace this time with Barkley, and soak in as much as he can.
The RB was asked about the injury he suffered in Clemson’s bowl game, acknowledging that it was a fibular dislocation, but there was no damage or surgery.
“I’m fully cleared. 110 percent, on go, ever since my Pro Day I’ve been getting after it.”
Shipley talked about being a kick returner for three years at Clemson, and said the experience was great for him, giving him another opportunity to get the ball in space and make things happen.
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