The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made another addition to their backfield in free agency, signing veteran running back Kenneth Gainwell. While many expected Tampa Bay to pursue a bigger power back this offseason, the team instead added another versatile weapon who can contribute in both the run and pass game.
Gainwell may not be the bruising, between-the-tackles runner some fans expected, but he brings a skillset that fits well in today’s NFL offenses and one that should complement Bucky Irving nicely.
Gainwell entered the league in 2021 with the Philadelphia Eagles and quickly carved out a role as a reliable rotational back. During his time in Philadelphia, he became known for his ability as a pass catcher and third-down option while also providing explosive plays as a runner when given opportunities. He was also part of the Eagles team that won Super Bowl LIX, giving him championship experience that Tampa Bay’s offense can benefit from.
Last season with the Pittsburgh Steelers, Gainwell continued to show that versatility. In 2025, he recorded 476 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns while averaging over four yards per carry. He also added 38 receptions for 311 receiving yards, once again proving he can be a reliable option out of the backfield in the passing game. Gainwell’s all-around contributions earned him team recognition as the Steelers’ MVP for the season, highlighting the impact he made even without being a traditional workhorse back.
At 5-foot-9 and around 200 pounds, Gainwell is actually slightly smaller than Irving, which makes the move somewhat surprising for a Buccaneers team many expected to add more size to the backfield
What he brings to Tampa Bay is flexibility. Gainwell is comfortable running out of shotgun looks, catching passes out of the backfield, and operating in space, all things that new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson often leans on. He’s also a quick processor in pass protection, something that will keep him on the field in passing situations. Both Irving and Gainwell are dynamic in space and capable of creating mismatches as receivers. That gives Tampa Bay the option to move them around, use two-back looks, or rotate them to keep both fresh throughout the season.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Free Agent Profile: Bucs get versatile playmaker Kenneth Gainwell
Reporting by Ashlie Abrahams, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
