Shocking Eagles Depth Chart Crisis After Shipley Injury

Image Source: ESPN

The Eagles depth chart at running back has been thrown into uncertainty after Will Shipley suffered a partial tear of his plantar fascia during Philadelphia’s Week 5 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. According to ESPN, the injury could sideline Shipley for multiple weeks, leaving the Eagles with another major challenge at a position already hit by injuries.

Shocking Eagles Depth Chart Shake-Up

Shipley entered Sunday’s game in London as the Eagles’ starting running back because Saquon Barkley was dealing with a hamstring injury and Tank Bigsby was unavailable. Bigsby is currently on injured reserve after undergoing core muscle surgery, meaning Philadelphia had already lost two important pieces of its running back rotation.

Despite the difficult circumstances, Shipley made an immediate impact. He scored the first touchdown of his NFL career before leaving the game late in the first quarter. The rookie’s injury now creates another hole in the Eagles depth chart just as the team prepares for a crucial Week 6 matchup.

Shipley’s absence could be especially significant because he was expected to provide energy, pass-catching ability and depth behind Barkley. With the Eagles struggling to establish the run, losing another available back places additional pressure on the team’s offensive line and play-calling.

Dameon Pierce Emerges as Philadelphia’s Lead Back

After Shipley exited, Dameon Pierce took over the primary running back duties, with Carson Steele serving as his backup. Pierce finished the game with 14 yards on 11 carries, while Shipley recorded six yards on five attempts before his injury.

Steele remains an option for a larger role, but the Eagles may need to adjust their plans depending on Barkley’s recovery. The current Eagles depth chart could feature Pierce as the lead ball carrier, Steele as the No. 2 option and quarterback Jalen Hurts continuing to contribute in short-yardage and designed rushing situations.

• Dameon Pierce: Expected to handle the largest share of running back duties if Barkley and Shipley remain unavailable.
• Carson Steele: Could see increased snaps as the primary backup.
• Saquon Barkley: Status remains tied to his hamstring recovery.
• Tank Bigsby: Remains on injured reserve following core muscle surgery.

Critical Offensive Concerns After Jacksonville Loss

The Eagles’ rushing production against Jacksonville highlighted the urgency of the situation. Philadelphia finished with only 22 rushing yards on 18 attempts, an average of 1.2 yards per carry, in the 19-17 defeat.

Pierce led the team with 14 rushing yards, while Shipley added six and Hurts gained two yards on two attempts. Those numbers are far below what Philadelphia needs from its ground game, particularly with the offense facing increased pressure after a disappointing loss.

The lack of consistent rushing production also affects Hurts. Philadelphia’s quarterback is most effective when the offense can balance designed runs, read-option concepts and explosive passing plays. If the Eagles cannot restore a reliable rushing attack, opposing defenses may focus more aggressively on Hurts and the passing game.

What the Eagles Could Do Next

Philadelphia could initially rely on its current personnel, hoping Barkley can return soon and Pierce can provide stability in the meantime. However, the team may also explore practice-squad promotions or outside additions if Shipley is expected to miss an extended period.

The Eagles have little time to solve the problem. Philadelphia, now 2-3, is scheduled to host the 2-2 Carolina Panthers in Week 6. The matchup gives the team an opportunity to recover, but the running back situation will be closely watched throughout the week.

Head coach Nick Sirianni and the offensive staff will need to decide whether to keep a traditional backfield structure or design a more flexible game plan featuring Hurts, Pierce and Steele. More short passes, screen plays and quick-developing routes could help reduce pressure on the running game.

For now, the Eagles depth chart remains unsettled. Barkley’s hamstring status, Shipley’s recovery timeline and Pierce’s ability to handle a larger workload will determine how Philadelphia approaches its next game. The team’s immediate priority is clear: find enough production on the ground to keep the offense balanced.

Frequently Asked Questions

What injury did Will Shipley suffer?

Will Shipley suffered a partial tear of his plantar fascia during the Eagles’ Week 5 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. A source told ESPN that he could miss multiple weeks.

Who is expected to replace Will Shipley?

Dameon Pierce took over the primary running back role after Shipley left the game. Carson Steele is expected to provide backup support.

Is Saquon Barkley available for Week 6?

Barkley is dealing with a hamstring injury, and his availability for Philadelphia’s game against Carolina will depend on his recovery and practice participation.

What happened to Tank Bigsby?

Tank Bigsby is on injured reserve after undergoing core muscle surgery. His absence has contributed to the Eagles’ growing running back shortage.

How many rushing yards did the Eagles record against Jacksonville?

Philadelphia rushed for only 22 yards on 18 attempts in its 19-17 loss to Jacksonville.