Kenneth Gainwell is taking his talent to Tampa Bay. According to ESPN, the Buccaneers reached a two-year deal with the former Pittsburgh Steelers running back on Monday.
The report adds that Gainwell agreed to a $14 million deal ending his one-year stint with the Pittsburgh Steelers. NFL fans took to X to react to the news.
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A fan said, “Aaron Rodger’s favourite target is gone. Built quite the chemistry over the last year.”
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Another added, “fantasy legend.”
One wrote, “Bigger loss for Pittsburgh than most realize.”
Some fans weren’t as optimistic.
One said, “Didn’t expect them to replace White/Tucker with a pass catcher.”
Another wrote, “Gainwell had over 1,000 yards last season in Pittsbrugh— is very misleading. He had 537 rushing yards and 486 Rec yards. I’m still very happy he’s in a Bucs uniform!”
One chipped in, saying, “Interesting move! Wonder how he’ll fit into the Bucs’ offense.
Kenneth Gainwell started his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, contributing to their Super Bowl LIX win. He then joined the Pittsburgh Steelers on a one-year prove-it deal ahead of the 2025 season.
The veteran running back has seemingly done enough to secure a two-year deal with the NFC South powerhouse.
Kenneth Gainwell adds pass-catching prowess to Buccaneers running back room
Versatility is the name of the game in the modern NFL, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are getting one of the most versatile running backs in the league. Kenneth Gainwell proved to be an asset on the ground and as a pass catcher in the Pittsburgh Steelers’ offense in his sole season with the franchise.
Gainwell amassed a stat line of 114 carries, 537 rushing yards and five rushing touchdowns. He added 73 catches, 486 receiving yards and three air touchdowns for good measure in 17 games (two starts). Gainwell also contributed as a returner.
Gainwell fits nicely into the Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive scheme. The Bucs running backs are Swiss army knives as they’re efficient in rushing, receiving and returning kicks. Bucky Irving and Sean Tucker (if he’s back) are two of the most versatile RBs in the NFC.
The Bucs are fresh off their first season without playoff football since the pre-Tom Brady days. Coach Todd Bowles is under pressure to ensure that last year’s performance was a one-off and the team returns to contending at the business end of the season.
Kenneth Gainwell arrives in Tampa Bay with Super Bowl experience while being fresh off catching passes from a four-time MVP. His veteran presence could come in clutch in an increasingly stacked NFC.
Edited by Nick Igbokwe