Clemson running back Will Shipley declares for 2024 NFL Draft

Clemson Tigers star running back Will Shipley has taken his last snaps for the program this year. However, that news is bittersweet for Clemson fans as the fan-favorite back isn’t headed to the NCAA transfer portal but rather to the NFL. On Wednesday night, Shipley revealed that he would be forgoing his final year of eligibility and declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft.

Shipley made the announcement from his social media page with this message attached.

“Thank you for everything! The decision to attend Clemson University is the best one I’ve ever made,” started Shipley. “My Clemson experience has provided me with lifelong benefits and friendships, a confidence to excel in anything I pursue, and an appreciation for a standard of excellence.”

“I am grateful to my teammates, the best brothers I could ever ask for. You’ve changed me, made me a better person, and given me memories that I will hold on to for a lifetime. I am grateful to my coaches and support staff, the greatest mentors that God could have woven together…”

“I have decided to enter my name into the 2024 NFL draft. I am grateful for the last three years, and I am excited to see what the future holds! Although I’m taking the next step of my journey, I will always be a Clemson Tiger!”

More on the 2024 NFL Draft

The 2024 NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Michigan, with the first round on Thursday, April 25, the second and third rounds on Friday, April 26, and the fourth through seventh rounds on Saturday, April 27.

Players will have the opportunity to solidify their draft stock at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, to be held in Indianapolis, Indiana from February 26 through March 4.

The three-day event will be broadcasted throughout the weekend on ESPN and NFL Network.

To be eligible for the NFL Draft, players must be at least three years removed from their final year of high school while having used up their collegiate eligibility. Underclassmen are able to request league approval to become eligible for the draft, as are players who have graduated prior to using up all of their collegiate eligibility.

Last season, 69 players were granted special eligibility for the 2023 NFL Draft. 13 underclassmen who had completed their college degrees were also deemed eligible to be selected.

The deadline to declare for the 2024 NFL Draft is on January 15. NFL teams will receive a full list of eligible players in the class on January 19.