The Pittsburgh Steelers face questions about whether their new coaching staff views Kenneth Gainwell as a key free agent to re-sign. After earning the team’s MVP last season and signing a one-year deal worth less than $2 million, Gainwell approaches his sixth NFL season with improved market value, but his future in Pittsburgh remains unclear. His priority status with Mike McCarthy’s staff compared to previous regimes, including Mike Tomlin and Arthur Smith, is still a matter of speculation.
Growing Role Amidst Competition in the Backfield
Throughout much of his career, Kenneth Gainwell operated behind more prominent running backs such as Saquon Barkley. In Pittsburgh, while sharing duties with Jaylen Warren, who took most of the carries, Gainwell earned a more significant role, especially in the passing game. This expanded usage helped him deliver his best performance, marking career highs in several categories during what was his most involved season to date.
Last season, Gainwell surpassed 500 snaps for the first time, recorded 187 total touches, and exceeded 1,000 yards from scrimmage—achievements he had not reached before. Additionally, he scored eight touchdowns, more than his total in the previous three years combined, highlighting his growth as an offensive contributor.
Evaluating Gainwell’s Future Within McCarthy’s System
Despite these impressive statistics, questions remain whether Mike McCarthy’s offensive scheme will replicate Gainwell’s prior success or if the running back room will shift direction. Jaylen Warren remains on the roster, and the Steelers have yet to utilize Kaleb Johnson, their third-round pick from 2025, who has not yet secured a consistent role. The team’s approach to balancing these players will influence Gainwell’s standing and contract prospects.
Financially, Gainwell is poised to command more than $2 million per year on the open market, an amount that would reflect his recent performance. Approaching 27 years old, he has earned approximately $5.6 million over five seasons, a figure he may look to increase substantially with his next contract.
Contract Expectations and Potential Priorities for the Steelers
It is plausible that Gainwell seeks a deal averaging above his previous earnings, but whether the Steelers will match that valuation remains uncertain. The new coaching regime’s willingness to invest in him may also be influenced by broader changes within the team, including shifts in personnel. The possible departure of quarterback Aaron Rodgers adds another layer of complexity to Gainwell’s decision to re-sign in Pittsburgh.
Team Outlook as Steelers Prepare for Another Offseason
The Steelers recently exited the playoffs after a first-round loss, extending their streak of postseason defeats to seven since 2017 and underscoring a decade-long drought of playoff victories. This recurring early exit places the franchise in a prolonged offseason period, which likely will include significant transitions, with Mike Tomlin’s departure standing out as a major change.
The absence of playoff action signals a time for reflection and restructuring. As the season winds down for the Steelers, the organization and its supporters brace for wide-ranging adjustments, including decisions regarding key players like Kenneth Gainwell.
“The playoffs are still going, but for us and the Steelers, we are transitioning to offseason mode. That’s what happens when the team you cover loses by the middle of January all the time, but you’ve been around, so you know that already. Enjoy the ride, even the turbulence, because it’s the only way we know how to travel anymore.” – Anonymous, Sports Reporter
