The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed Kenneth Gainwell, a former running back for the Philadelphia Eagles, to a one-year contract in free agency. Gainwell, who was selected in the fifth round of the 2020 draft from Memphis, played four seasons with the Eagles as both a running back and kick returner.
During his tenure with Philadelphia, Gainwell accumulated nearly 1,200 rushing yards and scored 12 touchdowns over 66 games, starting in four. He also contributed as a receiver with 102 catches totaling over 700 yards and an additional touchdown. His kick return skills were notable as well; he averaged 22.7 yards on 36 career returns and posted a 25.3-yard average in 2024 when he was the primary return man for the Eagles.
Gainwell has maintained an average of 4.2 yards per carry throughout his career. In the previous season, he backed up Saquon Barkley while also serving as Philadelphia’s third-down back. Although regarded as a competent pass protector, he is not considered exceptional in this area.
With Najee Harris departing via free agency, Gainwell is expected to be a complementary piece alongside Jaylen Warren for the Steelers’ offense. The team retained Warren by tendering him as a restricted free agent and may utilize Gainwell as both a backup running back and potential replacement for Warren on kick returns should Warren assume starting duties.
Gainwell’s skill set includes proficiency in running outside zone schemes—a style he excelled at during his college days at Memphis where he recorded 1,459 rushing yards in just one season as a starter. He showcased his speed by clocking a 4.42-second time in the 40-yard dash during his pro day but has yet to surpass a long run of more than 32 yards in professional play.
Despite Gainwell’s addition to their roster, the Steelers remain open to selecting another running back in the upcoming NFL Draft of 2025.
