Pittsburgh Review

The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed running back Kenneth Gainwell to a one-year contract. Gainwell, originally drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fifth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, has spent four seasons with the Eagles.

During his time with Philadelphia, Gainwell played in 66 games and made four starts. He carried the ball 280 times for a total of 1,185 yards, averaging 4.2 yards per carry, and scored 12 touchdowns. Additionally, he recorded 102 receptions for 721 yards and one touchdown while also contributing on special teams with 27 kickoff returns totaling 612 yards.

Gainwell expressed his enthusiasm about joining the Steelers: "I love the toughness of this team, the toughness of this brand of football," he said. "And really, just Coach Mike Tomlin... seeing what Coach Tomlin does with the running backs... to come in and implement my game and be the best version of myself."

In a Week 15 matchup against Pittsburgh in 2024, Gainwell achieved a total of 123 all-purpose yards. Reflecting on his playing style, he noted: "I bring a different game... I can run any route out of the backfield... Pass protection is big here and that is something I bring."

In recent seasons with Philadelphia, Gainwell showed versatility both as a runner and receiver. In 2024 alone, he participated in all regular-season games and contributed significantly during their Super Bowl LIX season by returning kickoffs for career-high yardage.

Gainwell's collegiate career at Memphis saw him as an impactful player alongside future teammate Calvin Austin III. He was instrumental in leading Memphis to an AAC Championship in 2019.