2024 NFL Draft — Trey Benson, Bucky Irving rank high on updated running back rankings

The running back position catches considerable flack in NFL circles. Sure, the position is far from the most important, but it is still crucial to a team’s success. The 2024 NFL Draft offers multiple starting-caliber prospects.

By Hunter Haas | Dec 7, 2023

Florida State Seminoles running back Trey Benson (3) rushes with the ball during the first half / Matt Pendleton/Gainesville Sun / USA

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Will Shipley Isn’t Christian McCaffrey, But He Is Pretty Good

RB5: Will Shipley (Clemson)

Height: 5-foot-11

Weight: 205 pounds

2023 Stats: 156 attempts, 811 rushing yards (5.2 YPC), 5 touchdowns, 470 yards after contact, 25 forced missed tackles, 29 receptions

The fifth spot is where things get tricky because upwards of six or seven names have a real argument. As of today, Will Shipley claims the No. 5 slot thanks to his new-age style of playing. Shipley has assumed a regular role since arriving at Clemson, flexing impressive vision as a runner and elite ability as a pass catcher.

The former four-star recruit is an efficient runner, using top-tier acceleration to attack running lanes as they develop. His hands are as good as any in the 2024 NFL Draft — regardless of position. Other prospects offer a more traditional option out of the backfield, but Shipley looks like Christian McCaffrey-lite at times on tape. And no, it’s not because they are both white.

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