During the 2025 offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers signed running back Kenneth Gainwell to a one-year deal, initially expecting him to serve as a backup to Jaylen Warren. Instead, Gainwell made the most of his opportunity with his new team, emerging as a key contributor and earning the Steelers’ MVP award, an honor voted on by his teammates.
Gainwell spent four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles prior to signing with Pittsburgh, where he saw limited opportunities while playing behind star running back Saquon Barkley. With a larger role this season, Gainwell has taken full advantage of his increased opportunities and made a significant impact.
The Steelers’ MVP has not only been productive as a running back but has also been highly effective in the passing game.
In 16 games played, Gainwell recorded 527 rushing yards and four touchdowns, averaging 4.8 yards per carry. In the receiving game, he totaled 422 receiving yards and three touchdowns, averaging 6.5 yards per reception, according to ESPN.
Gainwell ranks third overall on the Steelers roster in receiving yards, only behind wide receiver DK Metcalf (850) and tight end Pat Freiermuth (435).
When Gainwell was asked about being selected by his teammates, he said, “It’s crazy, but I’m very appreciative of those guys. I know they know how hard I work. It feels good to have those guys on my side,” according to Teresa Varley of Steelers.com.
GettyRB Kenneth Gainwell.
Teammates Talk About Gainwell
Wide receiver Calvin Austin III said, “He’s just provided nothing but spark and consistency. What he can do on a football field isn’t a secret anymore. Not that it has been, but I feel like I’ve always been saying from the beginning that he’s one of the best football players I’ve ever played with. It’s just cool that the world can see,” according to Brendan Howe of Steelers Now.
Warren spoke highly of his fellow running back, adding that Gainwell is “everything you want in a player,” according to Howe.
Quarterback Aaron Rodgers said, “I was telling him, I wish I played with him for 10 years just because of the kind of player that he is. You just love playing with that guy,” according to Varley.
Defensive End T.J. Watt said, “Can’t say enough great things about him as a player and as a teammate. So, I’m just excited for him,” according to Varley.
GettyQB Aaron Rodgers thinks highly of Gainwell.
Gainwell’s Future
Gainwell will be a free agent after the season, making his re-signing a likely priority for the Black and Gold, as the team would lose its 2025 MVP if he were to sign elsewhere.
When asked about returning to Pittsburgh, Gainwell said, “This experience has been amazing to me. It’s definitely something that I would love to experience again, but obviously, the free agency thing, it’s different. But this is exactly something I’d love to come back to and be a part of,” according to Howe.
GettyGainwell is set to be a free agent after the season.
Steelers’ Unexpected Hero Named Team MVP