The conversation around the Steelers’ backfield has shifted in 2025, and one name continues to surface: kenneth gainwell. Once considered a depth signing behind Jaylen Warren, Gainwell is proving to be much more than just a backup. His versatility, patience, and growing impact are making him one of Pittsburgh’s most important offensive contributors this season.
A Fresh Start in Pittsburgh
Gainwell entered the NFL in 2021 with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he showed flashes of potential. Known for his quickness and reliable hands, he carved out a role as a rotational back but never broke into a full-time starting role.
In the 2025 offseason, the Steelers brought him in on a one-year deal. At the time, the move was seen as insurance for Jaylen Warren, who had just stepped into the lead role following Najee Harris’s departure. Pittsburgh valued Gainwell’s ability to contribute in multiple phases of the game, but expectations were modest.
Four weeks into the season, it’s clear that Gainwell has become more than just a safety net.
His Role in the 2025 Season
The Steelers have leaned on Kenneth Gainwell in creative ways. He has carried the ball in traditional run situations, lined up as a receiver in the slot, and even been trusted on special teams. That versatility has allowed head coach Mike Tomlin and offensive coordinator Matt Canada to adjust game plans depending on opponent matchups.
2025 Production (through 3 games):
- 16 carries for 55 rushing yards
- 7 receptions for 30 yards
- 1 touchdown (Week 3 vs. New England)
- Additional snaps on kick returns and special teams coverage
While the raw numbers may not turn heads, the context matters. Gainwell is producing in limited opportunities, and when called upon, he has delivered.
Stepping Up When Needed
The real test for Gainwell came in Week 4, when Jaylen Warren was sidelined with a knee injury. That put the spotlight squarely on Gainwell to carry a bigger share of the workload.
He didn’t shy away from the challenge. Though the game plan leaned more heavily on quarterback Aaron Rodgers and the passing attack, Gainwell was used in crucial third-down situations and helped maintain offensive balance. His reliability as a blocker and pass catcher gave Rodgers the confidence to check down and keep drives alive.
This moment highlighted why the Steelers signed him in the first place — not just for what he brings as a runner, but for the steady presence he offers across the offense.
Strengths That Make Him Valuable
Kenneth Gainwell may not have the power of a bruising back, but his strengths bring unique value to the Steelers.
- Pass-Catching Ability: He has natural hands and runs clean routes out of the backfield, making him a mismatch against linebackers.
- Football IQ: Gainwell recognizes blitz packages quickly, helping him pick up critical blocks and protect the quarterback.
- Shiftiness: His quick first step allows him to exploit gaps and slip through tight spaces.
- Durability in Roles: While he’s not a workhorse back, his conditioning allows him to take on multiple roles — offense, special teams, and situational packages.
Areas for Growth
Of course, there are still areas where Gainwell needs improvement if he wants to maximize his impact.
- Yards per Carry: He’s averaging just over 3.4 yards per rush so far this season. Increasing efficiency on the ground is key to keeping defenses honest.
- Explosive Plays: While steady, Gainwell has yet to deliver a big breakaway run in Pittsburgh colors. Adding that dimension would make him even more dangerous.
- Consistency: To earn more touches, he’ll need to prove he can deliver at the same level every week, not just in spurts.
These challenges aren’t insurmountable, and with more opportunity, Gainwell may begin to elevate those numbers.
Special Teams Contributions
One underrated aspect of Gainwell’s impact has been his role on special teams. After rookie Kaleb Johnson’s costly error on a kickoff earlier this season, the Steelers shifted more responsibility onto Gainwell. His experience and reliability have helped stabilize that unit.
Special teams don’t always grab headlines, but for a team like Pittsburgh, field position and momentum often define games. Gainwell’s willingness to step in shows his team-first mentality.
How the Steelers Offense Changes with Gainwell
The Steelers’ offense looks different when Gainwell is on the field. With Jaylen Warren, defenses prepare for a more traditional ground-and-pound style with added receiving threats. With Gainwell, the playbook opens to more passing schemes and quicker tempo.
Rodgers has already used him effectively on:
- Swing passes that turn into chunk gains
- Third-and-medium situations, where Gainwell slips into open zones
- Hurry-up offenses, taking advantage of his ability to line up quickly in different spots
This adaptability gives Pittsburgh flexibility in high-pressure situations.
Fantasy Football Impact
Fantasy football players have noticed Gainwell’s rise. While not yet a weekly starter, he’s become an intriguing handcuff and flex option, especially in PPR leagues.
- Handcuff Value: With Warren battling injuries, Gainwell is next in line for increased volume.
- PPR Upside: His receptions make him a sneaky option in deeper leagues.
- Matchup Potential: Against defenses that struggle with pass-catching backs, his role can expand.
Managers should keep a close eye on snap counts and injury updates, as Gainwell’s usage could spike at any point.
The Locker Room Perspective
Inside the locker room, Gainwell has quickly earned respect. Teammates describe him as humble, hardworking, and always ready. That attitude aligns perfectly with Pittsburgh’s culture.
He doesn’t demand touches or spotlight; instead, he embraces whatever role the coaching staff asks of him. This team-first mentality makes him not only valuable on the field but also a stabilizing presence in the locker room.
Looking Toward the Future
Gainwell is currently on a one-year deal, but if his trajectory continues upward, the Steelers may look to extend him beyond 2025. His versatility makes him more than just a backup, and with Pittsburgh aiming to keep offensive weapons around Rodgers, continuity in the backfield could become a priority.
Even if the Steelers don’t retain him long-term, his performance this season could set him up for opportunities elsewhere. In a league that increasingly values dual-threat running backs, Gainwell’s stock is rising.
Why He Matters to the Steelers’ Identity
The Steelers are known for their gritty, adaptable style of play. Kenneth Gainwell embodies that identity. He’s not the flashiest player on the field, but he provides reliability, versatility, and toughness — qualities that have long defined Pittsburgh football.
In a season filled with change, having a player who can step into multiple roles and perform consistently is exactly what this team needs.
Final Thoughts
The rise of kenneth gainwell in Pittsburgh is one of the quiet but important storylines of the 2025 season. He may not be a household name across the league, but within the Steelers’ system, he’s proving to be an indispensable piece.
From his steady play in the backfield to his contributions on special teams, Gainwell has shown that he belongs in the conversation as more than just depth. His performance in the coming weeks could shape not only his future but also the Steelers’ offensive success.
What’s your take — is Gainwell ready to become a permanent feature in the Steelers’ offense, or will his role remain situational? Share your thoughts below and join the conversation.