Kenneth Gainwell
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Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan provided an update on running back Kenneth Gainwell's free agency at the 2026 NFL Combine.
Most of the focus around the Pittsburgh Steelers this offseason has been on quarterback with Aaron Rodgers. But the Steelers have another key free agent on offense — running back Kenneth Gainwell.
The 26-year-old running back led the team in receptions and eclipsed 1,000 yards from scrimmage on his way to Steelers MVP honors during 2025.
At the 2026 NFL Combine on Tuesday, Steelers general manager Omar Khan said the team is trying to re-sign Gainwell. Khan told reporters he has made that goal clear to the running back and his representation.
“Omar Khan said he’s spoke with Kenneth Gainwell’s agent and ‘he knows we want him back,'” wrote The Athletic’s Mike DeFabo.
Gainwell had his best NFL season in Pittsburgh while playing on a 1-year contract during 2025. He ran for 537 yards and five touchdowns while averaging 4.7 yards per rush.
He also caught 73 passes for three additional scores.
With those statistics, Gainwell set career bests in rushing yards, receptions, receiving yards, receiving touchdowns, yards from scrimmage and total touchdowns. He accomplished that on career high 187 touches.