One of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ most underrated moves this offseason was signing running back Kenny Gainwell in free agency.
He’s already emerging as a leader and key player for the Bucs offense.
While he’s an efficient rusher, Gainwell’s biggest impact comes in the passing game, as he’s one of the NFL’s best receiving backs. His ability to serve as a safety valve and make plays with the ball in his hands could make him a huge asset for Baker Mayfield this season.
Kenny Gainwell will make life easier for Tampa Bay Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield
Mayfield spoke to reporters after practice Tuesday, and he gushed over his new weapon.
“I’ve just been completely overwhelmed with the amount of talent that he has… He was a receiver going into college. He was a slot receiver at Memphis, and it explains why he’s so smooth running routes.”
Gainwell totaled 73 receptions last season for 486 yards, each ranking fourth among running backs. He also rushed for 537 rushing yards at 4.7 yards per carry, which would’ve led the Buccaneers’ running backs last season. He eclipsed 1,000 scrimmage yards for the first time in his career, and was voted by his teammates as Steelers MVP.
Fox Sports’ Greg Auman said on the Bucs Collective podcast that he wouldn’t be surprised if Gainwell led Tampa Bay in receptions this season.
The impact he can have for this offense is being severely underrated, as Mayfield now has a checkdown option that can convert easy completions into big plays. He’ll also help to take some of the load off Bucky Irving, and splitting the workload should help keep both backs fresh and healthy. Add Sean Tucker to the mix, and the Buccaneers quietly boast one of the NFL’s best running back stables.
While Gainwell’s value on the field is obvious, Mayfield isn’t just excited about the newcomer’s playmaking ability. He’s even more excited about the leadership Gainwell has brought to the locker room.
“He’s been a huge addition for us… just a veteran presence, a leader, a guy that leads by example and continues to help set the tone for us on offense.”
Gainwell is going to play a major role in the Bucs offense, both as a rusher and a receiver, and he’s also going to be a key veteran leader to help maintain the team’s strong culture. It’s early, but the veteran running back has the makings of a home run addition for the Buccaneers.
Add us as a preferred source on Google