Training camp is nearly here, which means roster spots will be on the line. Staters will get pushed, and new additions can prove that the contract wasn't a mistake. For some players, it's an opportunity to get more opportunities.
Kenneth Gainwell has been in the league for five seasons. Four with the Eagles and a career season with the Steelers last year. Now, he will back up Bucky Irving. At least that's the ideal plan. Gainwell is done taking a backseat and will push for more reps this year.
The Buccaneers certainly can't wait to see what he can do on the field, but consider themselves impressed with what he can do off of it.
Kenny G repping out 495 lbs at 5'9", 200 lbs is INSANE 🤯
— Tampa Bay Buccaneers (@Buccaneers) July 20, 2026
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Kenneth Gainwell is putting in the reps that could lead to more carries with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Over five seasons, Gainwell has started just six games out of 83 that he has appeared in. The starts are not a concern, as he has played plenty. He has 394 career rushing attempts for 1,722 yards. In 2025, he carried the ball 114 times for the Steelers for over 500 yards. He could be giving the Buccaneers a reason to rely on him.
Irving is the starter, but in the era of NFL football, teams are more apt to split series to keep legs fresh, especially in the second half. Doubling up on quality runners can go a long way, especially strong ones with legs that can squat nearly 500 pounds.
The Buccaneers have a solid one-two punch in their running back room, and if they should lose Irving for any period of time, Gainwell is ready to take over the top job until he comes back.
Gainwell got a two-year deal from the Buccaneers this offseason. If he plays it out, he will still only be heading into year eight, and considering his workload, there is plenty of tread left on the proverbial tires.
Tampa will also be getting a top receiving outlet for Baker Mayfield. With the Steelers last season, Gainewell was on the receiving end of 73 receptions for another 486 yards. Why did the Steelers let him go again? Doesn't matter; he could have a better statistical season with Tampa even if Irving stays healthy all year. Too much talent to sit on the sidelines.
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