When you think of a Philadelphia Eagles running back, you automatically picture Saquon Barkley.
Coming off the greatest season ever by an NFL running back, Barkley has changed the sport's trajectory. Once again, the halfback position holds tremendous value, and the sport will see an increase in rushing plays this upcoming year.
Despite how productive Barkley was in 2024-25, the chances of him repeating those milestones are slim. Barkley will likely see his snap count reduced this season with the idea of keeping him healthy. There have been no official comments from Nick Sirianni or the Eagles organization on this topic, but we can assume this will be the case.
If the Eagles' star is going to see a reduction in snaps, someone will have to fill the void. With veteran backup Kenneth Gainwell now a member of the Pittsburgh Steelers, sophomore running back Will Shipley should now have the opportunity to shine.
Will Shipley is ready for the moment
Last season, Shipley only received thirty carries across his sixteen games played. A very small volume for a player who thrived in his college career at Clemson. However, such is the NFL for a fourth-round draft choice.
Shipley is going to see that total rise in the 2025-26 season. With Gainwell moving on in free agency and the Barkley's count likely to decrease, all eyes point to the sophomore back. The Birds did add veteran running back AJ Dillon to the roster this offseason, but Shipley should be able to hold off Dillon as RB2.
Watching the backup get opportunities in the playoffs was a sign of approval from the Eagles. Shipley was given the chance to enter each game on the Eagles' road to victory. His touchdown in the NFC championship game was just the icing on the cake for a rookie who saw Super Bowl playing time.
The potential decrease in snaps for Barkley, allowing Gainwell to move on, and signing a cheap veteran all point to an increase in chances for the second-year back. Shipley gave everyone a taste of his talents in his rookie campaign and will now have the opportunity to turn it up in year two.
Time will certainly tell how Shipley will impact the Eagles this upcoming season. He will be a player to watch once camp starts and preseason action gets underway.
