Buccaneers Sign Steelers Team MVP to $14 Million Deal

Tampa Bay adds Kenneth Gainwell, one of the NFL's best receiving backs, to replace Rachaad White.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have signed Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell to a two-year, $14 million contract with $10 million guaranteed. Gainwell, the Steelers' team MVP last season, had 1,023 total yards and 8 touchdowns in 2025 and is expected to be a valuable pass-catching complement to Bucky Irving in the Bucs' backfield.

Why it matters

The Buccaneers are looking to reload their offense after the departure of running back Rachaad White in free agency. Gainwell's versatility as both a runner and receiver should help offset White's production and provide a boost to Tampa Bay's passing game.

The details

Gainwell was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in 2021 and spent one season with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2025 before signing with the Buccaneers. He is coming off a strong year in which he was named the Steelers' team MVP, totaling 1,023 yards from scrimmage and 8 touchdowns.

  • Gainwell signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Buccaneers on March 9, 2026.

The players

Kenneth Gainwell

A running back who was the Pittsburgh Steelers' team MVP in 2025 and is now joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on a two-year, $14 million contract.

Rachaad White

The running back who is departing the Buccaneers in free agency, opening the door for Gainwell's arrival.

Bucky Irving

The Buccaneers' likely starting running back, with Gainwell expected to serve as a complementary pass-catching back.

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What they’re saying

“Gainwell, the #Steelers' team MVP last year, had 1,023 total yards and 8 TDs and is an ascending player as a runner and pass catcher.”

— Jordan Schultz, NFL Insider (Twitter)

What’s next

The Buccaneers will look to integrate Gainwell into their offense and see how he can complement Bucky Irving in the backfield during the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Buccaneers have made a savvy move to bolster their running game by signing one of the league's most dynamic receiving backs in Kenneth Gainwell. His versatility should provide a significant boost to Tampa Bay's offense as they aim to return to the playoffs.