The Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed Kenneth Gainwell to complement Bucky Irving, but early indications from training camp suggest the veteran running back could have enough of a role to matter in fantasy football.
After visiting Buccaneers camp on July 30, ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler came away particularly impressed with Gainwell. Fowler reported that the veteran “made plays all over the field,” with his work in the passing game standing out during practice. More importantly for fantasy managers, Fowler believes Gainwell is going to see the field plenty once the season begins.
That doesn’t necessarily mean taking touches directly away from Irving. Fowler noted that Tampa Bay could use both backs together in two-running back “pony” formations, potentially creating a path for Gainwell to earn consistent snaps without needing to replace Irving. He also reported that Gainwell’s presence has been noticeable enough that his name regularly comes up in conversations within the organization about the offense.
Irving remains the proven option and is looking to rebound after a disappointing 2025 season, but Gainwell brings a different element to Zac Robinson’s offense. His ability as a receiver could give him standalone value, particularly in PPR formats, while also making him one of the more valuable handcuffs if Irving misses time.
Fowler ultimately called Gainwell a “good stash option for a high volume of receptions mixed with timely runs.”
That’s not a recommendation to reach for Gainwell, but at his current cost, the potential workload makes him exactly the kind of late-round running back worth investing some fantasy stock in.
This article originally appeared on Bucs Wire: Is Kenneth Gainwell worth investing fantasy stock in?
Reporting by Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire / Bucs Wire
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By Mason Riney, Buccaneers Wire | USA TODAY Network
