The Pittsburgh Steelers struck gold last offseason by signing Kenneth Gainwell, one of the best value free agent pickups, to a one-year, $1.79 million deal. He set career highs in rushing and receiving, led the team in receptions, and served as the primary kick returner, earning Team MVP honors. Gainwell totaled 537 yards on 4.7 yards per attempt and five scores on the ground, 73 receptions for 486 yards and three touchdowns, and 26 kick returns for 633 yards across 17 regular-season games and two starts. He also had 20 rushing yards, 26 receiving yards, and 100 kick return yards in the Wild Card.
It would be logical for the Steelers to retain the Swiss Army Knife given his abilities as a rusher, pass blocker/blitz picker-upper, receiver, and return specialist.
Pittsburgh Steelers eye deal for free agent steal
Pittsburgh Steelers, omar khan
Oct 16, 2025; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers general manager Omar Khan looks on during warmups before the game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Maiorana-Imagn Images
During Tuesday’s press conference at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, Omar Khan was asked about Kenneth Gainwell, who is scheduled to become a free agent in March, as reported by Ari Meyer of Sports Illustrated. The general manager reflected on the Swiss Army Knife’s incredible season and expressed interest in re-signing him. Khan also adds that the Steelers have been in communication with his agents, hoping to get a deal done before the start of the tampering window.
“Kenny was great to have around, and he knows we want him back, and we’ve been in communication with his people,” Khan said.
The versatile RB said in January he wanted to stay in Pittsburgh
“This experience has been amazing to me,” Kenneth Gainwell said, via Joey Bray ofBehind The Steel Curtain. “It’s definitely something I would love to experience again. But, obviously, you know, the free agency thing — it’s different. This is exactly something that I would love to come back to and be a part of.”
Here’s a look at Spotrac’sprojected contract
Contract Length: 2 years
Average Per Year: $3 million
Total Contract Amount: $6 million
Rank Among Running Backs: 25th
Kenneth Gainwell with an improbable touchdown. pic.twitter.com/8OuDhUMHb1
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 21, 2025