Clemson’s running back room in 2024 will look different with the departure of long-time offensive focal point Will Shipley.
Shipley recently declared for the 2024 NFL draft, ending his time with the program. While it stings to lose a guy as talented as Shipley, Clemson’s running back room is in a fine place heading into 2024 without him.
The Tigers have another star in the backfield, Phil Mafah, who is likely to return for the 2024 season. Mafah stepped up in a big way this season, recording career highs in rushing attempts (179), rushing yards (965), rushing touchdowns (13), receptions (21) and receiving yards (108) in 506 snaps over 13 games (five starts). Mafah didn’t get a full workload until Clemson’s loss against NC State, but that’s when we really saw the breakout.
Over the season’s final six games, Mafah ran for 610 yards and nine touchdowns. When given the reins, Mafah became a force for this offense. His true breakout came in Clemson’s 31-23 upset win over Notre Dame, during which he took 36 carries for 186 yards and two touchdowns. A true workhorse performance.
At starting running back, the Tigers are covered. But what about beyond Mafah? Well, that’s where someone will have to step up. Currently on the roster, the Tigers have Keith Adams Jr., Jay Haynes and Jarvis Green. They also add incoming freshman David Eziomume.
There is undoubtedly talent behind Mafah, but it’s really about who is going to step up. It’s safe to assume that whoever does will likely need to be active out of the backfield, as Mafah isn’t the most polished receiving back. I’m not saying he can’t improve there; it just doesn’t necessarily fit his build.
Right now, it is safe to expect Mafah to continue to be a workhorse for this backfield while running back coach CJ Spiller identifies who can be a reliable No. 2 for him.