As NFL free agency nears, Kenneth Gainwell’s future with the Pittsburgh Steelers appears uncertain. The running back is poised to become an unrestricted free agent if the Steelers do not re-sign him before the start of the new league year on March 11.
Gainwell’s Rising Stock
Gainwell signed a one-year deal with Pittsburgh for $1.79 million after four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. Following a career year with 1,023 yards from scrimmage and eight touchdowns, Gainwell is now being described as an “under-the-radar” free agent. According to ESPN’s Ben Solak, Gainwell became quarterback Aaron Rodgers’ favourite receiver by the end of the season.
Solak highlighted Gainwell’s receiving ability, noting his 486 receiving yards ranked fifth among running backs. He also recorded a 47% success rate on rushing attempts, placing him sixth among qualifying backs.
Potential Landing Spots: Vikings and Seahawks
Solak believes Gainwell could be a valuable asset for the Minnesota Vikings and Seattle Seahawks if he enters the open market. He suggested Gainwell would be a “great complement” to Jordan Mason in Minnesota or Charbonnet in Seattle. Both teams are potentially facing changes at the running back position as the new season approaches.
The Vikings have already announced their intention to release veteran Aaron Jones at the start of the league year after two seasons. Jones rushed for 1,138 yards and five touchdowns in 17 games during the 2024 season but struggled with injuries last year, missing five games and finishing with just 548 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
The Seahawks’ backfield could also see changes. Kenneth Walker III is set to hit free agency after leading Seattle in rushing with 1,027 yards, while Zach Charbonnet is recovering from a torn ACL that caused him to miss the team’s final regular-season game and the entire postseason.
Gainwell’s Opportunity
This offseason could be Gainwell’s best chance to secure a significant contract. His rookie deal with the Eagles was a four-year contract worth $3.8 million beginning in 2021. After that contract expired, he signed a one-year deal with Pittsburgh for just under $2 million.
Coming off his most productive NFL season, Gainwell has emerged as an appealing option for teams seeking a versatile running back capable of contributing both as a runner and receiver.
Gainwell is expected to have multiple suitors in what is shaping up to be one of the deeper running back free-agent classes in recent memory. Solak predicted Gainwell could end up signing what he described as a “quiet deal” that winds up having a major impact later in the 2026 season.