Who Should I Start? Samaje Perine or Will Shipley

Friday, October 9, 1:04 PM

There is a big opportunity available for Philadelphia Eagles running back Will Shipley in a Week 5 matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in London. Shipley, who normally operates as the third-string running back for the Eagles, could be thrust into a starting role on Sunday due to injuries to starter Saquon Barkley (hamstring) and backup tailback Tank Bigsby (abdomen). Both Barkley and Bigsby were injured during the 24-20 loss to the Los Angeles Rams in Week 4. Barkley was injured on the second series of the game after just four offensive snaps, while Bigsby and Shipley each played 29 snaps against the Rams. However, it was Bigsby leading the way before he exited the game late with the core injury. Bigsby recorded 14 carries for 55 yards (3.9 yards per carry), while Shipley tallied six rushes for 23 yards (3.8 yards per carry). With Barkley ruled out and Bigsby now on injured reserve, Shipley appears to be in a position to lead Philadelphia's backfield in Week 5. However, the Eagles did sign both Dameon Pierce and Carson Steele off of their practice squad and added them to the 53-man roster ahead of Week 5. Pierce is likely to be involved as well. So far in 2026, Shipley has played 91 offensive snaps and 63 snaps on special teams. He has recorded 15 rushes for 51 yards (3.4 yards per carry) and four receptions for 24 yards (6.0 yards per catch). Shipley has not yet scored a touchdown during the regular season in his career, but he did do so in the playoffs during the 2024 season. Shipley should have an opportunity for increased touches, but he faces a tough matchup against a Jacksonville defense that ranks third in the NFL with 74.3 rushing yards per game allowed. According to Pro Football Reference, the Jaguars rank third in the NFL in fantasy points given up per game to running backs (11.1). Shipley currently ranks as RotoBaller's No. 32 running back for Week 5. After being off of the fantasy radar, Shipley saw a 47% increase in his rostered percentage in Yahoo leagues from Week 4 to Week 5, but he is still available in 52% of leagues.