Week 5 Fantasy Football Running Back Start 'Em, Sit 'Em: Will Shipley vs. Ollie Gordon II

As the 2026 NFL season enters Week 5, fantasy football managers are grappling with important decisions about their starting running backs. Two players currently under intense scrutiny are Philadelphia Eagles RB Will Shipley and Miami Dolphins RB Ollie Gordon II. Both are set to start and present compelling Start Em, Sit Em matchups. This analysis will delve into each player's usage, efficiency metrics, and Week 5 dynamics to determine which one should reign supreme in your lineup.

Will Shipley, the Eagles' leading rusher, has been a hot commodity this week. Following an injury to Saquon Barkley and Tank Bigsby's injury, Shipley has been thrust into the starting role. Over the past four weeks, he's amassed 18 carries for 82 rushing yards and 9 receptions for 64 receiving yards. Now, with Barkley sidelined and Bigsby out, Shipley is projected to be the clear starter.

His receiving skills will offer a consistent PPR presence, while his expected touch volume guarantees at least double-digit rushing opportunities. Shipley's clear role as the main back in an elite offense puts him in a strong position for a Week 5 fantasy start in the RB2 range.

On the other hand, Ollie Gordon II has been on a roll with the Miami Dolphins. In Week 4, he led the backfield in touches with 100 rushing yards and a touchdown on 12 carries. His performance included a 53-yard run and a 12-yard touchdown, cementing his status as the team's primary early-down runner. Gordon currently leads the Dolphins with 148 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 29 attempts (5.1 yards per carry).

With Jaylen Wright dealing with an injury and expected to be questionable for Week 5, Gordon is poised to take on the bulk of the workload. Against a struggling Cincinnati Bengals defense, Gordon has a high ceiling for touchdown production and carries. His strong season-long numbers and favorable matchup make him an appealing, high-upside option.

While both players are ranked closely in the Week 5 Running Back Ranking, Shipley edges out Gordon for Week 5. Shipley's role as the lead back in an elite offensive unit gives him a massive total-opportunity baseline, including high-value pass-catching work. This provides a safer floor and higher fantasy ceiling compared to Gordon, who remains a high-upside option but has slightly less guaranteed production.

Both players are solid choices, but based on their Week 5 projection, Will Shipley is the recommended starter over Ollie Gordon II.