Eagles rookie RB Will Shipley shines at training camp with Saquon Barkley absent

Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley did not participate in training camp practice on Monday due to personal reasons.

That meant some first-team reps for Eagles' rookie running back Will Shipley.

And according to several reports, Shipley made the most of those reps and outshined the other backs with five catches.

Per Eliot Shorr-Parks, one of those catches came down the sideline between two defenders about 20 yards downfield.

Shipley Adds Extra Versatility to Eagles' Backfield

After trading back twice in the fourth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, the Eagles selected Shipley from Clemson with the 127th pick.

Shipley was stoked to see the Philly area code pop up on draft night since he is no stranger to the city after having been multiple times to cheer on his brother's U Penn lacrosse team.

"When the call came through from Philadelphia, I could not have been more ecstatic," Shipley said moments after he was selected. "I am up there all the time catching as many of his games as I can, and I have gained a love for the City of Philly. It could not be a better spot for my family. I'm ready to get to work and could not be more proud to be a Philadelphia Eagle."

As both a running back and receiver, Shipley brings even more versatility to the Eagles' backfield led by dual-threat Barkley.

Before making the jump to the NFL, Shipley was a three-year starter for the Clemson Tigers, totaling 2,747 yards and 31 touchdowns on 526 career rushing attempts along with 602 yards and two touchdowns on 85 catches.

The Eagles currently have a crowded backfield, but Shipley's versatility and special teams value could be what lands him a spot on the 53-man roster at the end of training camp.

Related: Eagles' Saquon Barkley calls out the best WR duo in the league, talks team identity