The Pittsburgh Steelers face a critical decision as their team MVP, Kenneth Gainwell, approaches free agency in less than three weeks with the start of the new league year. The recent contract extension for Dallas Cowboys running back Javonte Williams offers key insights into how much Gainwell might cost to retain and what the Steelers must consider amid salary cap constraints.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Cowboys and Javonte Williams have agreed to a three-year contract worth $24 million, which includes $16 million in guarantees. This deal highlights the current market valuation for running backs following breakout performances, providing a benchmark for the Steelers’ upcoming negotiations.
Examining the Details of Williams’ Contract
The new agreement promises Williams an average of $8 million annually. Williams earned this after rushing for 1,201 yards with 11 touchdowns and adding 137 receiving yards and two touchdowns last season. While initial reports often inflate figures, Williams’ deal ranks tied for the 16th highest average per year among running backs, suggesting that the contract is reasonable relative to recent market trends.
“The #Cowboys and standout RB Javonte Williams have agreed to terms on a 3-year deal worth $24M, sources say. Dallas keeps a big-time player. He gets his $8M per year after a breakout season in a deal was done by @AgentNicoleLynn of @KlutchSports.” ?Ian Rapoport, NFL Network
Comparing Gainwell’s Performance to Williams
To evaluate Gainwell’s possible contract, it is instructive to compare his production to Williams. Williams recorded 1,338 yards from scrimmage and 13 total touchdowns last season, averaging 4.7 yards per touch. Gainwell posted 1,023 scrimmage yards and eight touchdowns while achieving a higher efficiency with 5.5 yards per touch. Their distinct roles complicate direct comparison: Williams is primarily a power back driving through tackles, while Gainwell serves more as a receiving and change-of-pace option.
Projected Value for Gainwell on the Steelers
With Williams earning approximately $8 million annually, Gainwell’s contract is speculated to fall around 65 to 70 percent of that figure, translating to about $5 to $6 million per year. This would place Gainwell in a similar salary range to recent deals like the one signed by Najee Warren last offseason, reinforcing the affordability of retaining both players.
The Steelers could feasibly maintain Warren and Gainwell together for multiple seasons at this cost, which is notably less than what the Green Bay Packers are currently paying running back Josh Jacobs. However, the ultimate decision depends on the Steelers’ assessment of Kaleb Johnson’s development and their offensive line’s progress, as their third-round pick from last year adds complexity to the team’s backfield plans.
Offensive Systems and Future Value Concerns
Another important consideration is how much Aaron Rodgers’ playing style inflated Gainwell’s statistics. Gainwell thrived in the Arthur Smith-Rodgers offense, which favored quick releases and check-downs that suited Gainwell’s running style. The Steelers must evaluate whether Gainwell will have the same success under head coach Mike McCarthy and their new quarterback, whose identity remains unconfirmed for the 2026 season. If Rodgers joins Pittsburgh’s roster again, the Steelers will likely prioritize re-signing Gainwell.
Implications for the Steelers’ Roster and Salary Decisions
Given that Gainwell’s expected price is manageable within the Steelers’ salary cap structure, the focus shifts from cost to the player’s perceived indispensability. The team must balance keeping its top backs while nurturing young players and strengthening its offensive line. This contract landscape and impending free agency period underscore a tense and uncertain period for Pittsburgh’s roster management going forward.
The #Cowboys and standout RB Javonte Williams have agreed to terms on a 3-year deal worth $24M, sources say. Dallas keeps a big-time player.
He gets his $8M per year after a breakout season in a deal was done by @AgentNicoleLynn of @KlutchSports. pic.twitter.com/xHTcWxl4VF
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 21, 2026
