Will Shipley Will Lead Eagles Backfield in Week 5

The running back takes over the starting role for the October 11 game in London.

Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Football

Will Shipley Will Lead Eagles Backfield in Week 5

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Will Shipley is expected to serve as the lead running back for the Philadelphia Eagles during their Week 5 matchup on October 11, 2026. This shift in the backfield occurs as starting running back Saquon Barkley and backup Tank Bigsby are both sidelined by injuries.

Why it matters

The team must adjust its offensive strategy following the unavailability of primary contributors in the backfield. By promoting Dameon Pierce from the practice squad, the Eagles are bolstering their depth to manage the workload against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Will Shipley has recorded 182 rushing yards on 59 career carries and 115 receiving yards on 17 career receptions. In the first four games of the current season, he has totaled 51 rushing yards on 15 carries and 24 receiving yards on four catches.

The players

Will Shipley

He is a running back for the Philadelphia Eagles who played collegiately at Clemson.

Saquon Barkley

He is the starting running back for the Philadelphia Eagles who is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury.

Tank Bigsby

He is a backup running back for the Philadelphia Eagles currently on injured reserve with an abdominal injury.

Dameon Pierce

He is a running back who was promoted from the practice squad to the active roster to provide depth.

The details

The Eagles are turning to Shipley as their primary ball carrier for the contest at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. To provide additional backfield depth for the game, the organization promoted Dameon Pierce to the active roster.

2021-2023: Will Shipley played college football at Clemson.
January 26, 2025: Shipley appeared in the NFC Championship Game.
October 11, 2026: The Eagles face the Jacksonville Jaguars in London.

Season Trajectory

Managing depth following the team's successful run in Super Bowl LIX is critical to maintaining the Eagles competitive standing. Successfully navigating these injuries against the Jaguars will be a key factor in keeping the team in position for another playoff push.

Fantasy managers and bettors should note the increase in projected volume for Will Shipley in the Week 5 rotation. The absence of both Saquon Barkley and Tank Bigsby makes the workload split between Shipley and Dameon Pierce the primary focus for the backfield.

The takeaway

Depth players must be ready to capitalize on increased opportunities when starters are sidelined. Maintaining high levels of preparation ensures that the team can perform consistently throughout the duration of a long season.