Eagles Prioritize Future Assets, Add Running Back Shipley to Start Day 3
Photo by Joe Robbins/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
The Philadelphia Eagles made several moves on the final day of the 2024 NFL Draft, opting to bolster their future draft capital rather than select additional players in the later rounds.
Building for the Future:
- The team first dealt their 120th overall pick to the Miami Dolphins in exchange for a 2025 3rd-round pick. This move suggests the Eagles are confident in their current depth and may be eyeing a specific player they project to be available next year.
- Next, they sent their 123rd pick to the Houston Texans, receiving pick 127 and a 2025 5th-round pick in return. This trade allows the Eagles to add another pick in the upcoming draft while still making a selection in the later stages of the 2024 draft. They ultimately used the acquired pick (127th) to select Clemson running back Will Shipley.
- The most significant move came when the Eagles packaged their remaining picks, 132nd and 210th, and sent them to the Detroit Lions. In return, they received picks 164th, 201st, and a 2025 4th-round pick. This trade prioritizes future flexibility, giving the Eagles more ammunition to potentially move up in the draft next year or fill out their roster with a wider range of selections.
Adding Backfield Depth:
While accumulating future draft picks was a major focus, the Eagles also bolstered their backfield on Saturday, selecting Clemson running back Will Shipley with the 127th overall pick.
Shipley, a junior coming out of Clemson, is known for his versatility and explosiveness. During his college career, he racked up over 2,700 yards from scrimmage and 31 touchdowns. While some analysts projected him to be drafted earlier, the Eagles landed Shipley with a valuable pick in the mid-rounds.
However, the immediate starting role might not be in the cards for Shipley. The Eagles recently signed veteran running back Saquon Barkley to a big contract this offseason. Shipley is more likely to be eased into the offense, contributing as a change-of-pace back and potentially on special teams.
Still, Shipley’s arrival adds depth and receiving ability to the Eagles’ backfield. His ability to catch the ball out of the backfield could make him a valuable weapon in the passing game, complementing the power running style of Barkley.
Whether Shipley makes a major impact in his rookie season remains to be seen. But the Eagles have secured a talented young back with a bright future. Shipley will look to impress in training camp and preseason, vying for playing time behind Barkley.
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