Kenneth Gainwell Leaves Steelers for Buccaneers

Running back explains why he signed a two-year, $14 million deal with Tampa Bay

Mar. 14, 2026 at 7:24pm

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Kenneth Gainwell, the Pittsburgh Steelers' team MVP last season, has signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. In an interview with the Tampa Bay media, Gainwell explained that he wanted to join the Bucs last year but is now happy to be there, citing the opportunity to return to the South where he is from.

Why it matters

Gainwell's departure is significant as he was the Steelers' top offensive weapon last season, leading the team in receptions, receiving yards, and all-purpose yards. His exit marks the first time a Steelers' MVP has left the team in free agency since quarterback Neil O'Donnell left for the Jets in 1996.

The details

In 17 games last season, Gainwell rushed for 537 yards on 114 carries (4.7 average) and 5 touchdowns. He also had 73 receptions for 486 yards (6.7 average) and 3 touchdown receptions. His 1,023 all-purpose yards led the Steelers. Gainwell said the opportunity in Tampa 'opened up a couple of people's eyes' to what he can do, and he is 'very appreciative' for the chance Pittsburgh gave him to 'shine' before joining the Buccaneers.

  • Gainwell signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Buccaneers earlier this week.
  • Gainwell led the Steelers in receptions (73), receiving yards (486), and all-purpose yards (1,023) last season.

The players

Kenneth Gainwell

A running back who was the Pittsburgh Steelers' team MVP last season, leading the team in several offensive categories before signing a two-year, $14 million deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Neil O'Donnell

A former quarterback for the Pittsburgh Steelers who left the team in free agency for the New York Jets in 1996, marking the last time a Steelers' MVP had made an immediate exit prior to Gainwell.

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What they’re saying

“It was a great option for me. I wanted to be here last year, but you know, I am just happy to be here now. It was a great opportunity for me back in the South where I am from and just come here.”

— Kenneth Gainwell, Running back

“I think it opened up a couple of people's eyes just to see what I really can do. Me going out there to do all I can on the field basically just proved what I can do and what I have been doing all of my career. Even if it has been hidden, it's now coming to the light. I am very appreciative for the opportunity that Pittsburgh had given me to shine my light and now come here and do great things.”

— Kenneth Gainwell, Running back

What’s next

Gainwell and the Buccaneers will host the Steelers this season, providing an opportunity for Gainwell to face his former team.

The takeaway

Gainwell's departure from the Steelers is a significant loss, as he was their top offensive weapon last season. However, the move to the Buccaneers gives him a chance to return to the South and showcase his talents on a new stage, potentially opening more eyes to his capabilities.