At least one local beat writer expects RB Kenneth Gainwell to evaluate all his options before deciding where he’ll play in 2026. The PPG’s Ray Fittipaldo believes Gainwell will explore the market after a career season that undoubtedly boosted his value.
“I think Kenneth Gainwell is gonna go out and see what his market is,” Fittipaldo said Thursday afternoon on 93.7 The Fan. “Those are the indications that we are getting.”
Fittipaldo didn’t divulge what those “indications” are, but it’s sensible for Gainwell to weigh all options. Those comments also echo what the PPG’s Gerry Dulac noted days ago.
A new Steelers coaching staff and uncertainty at quarterback are reasons for Gainwell to see what the rest of the NFL can offer. The two main reasons he cited for his 2025 success, OC Arthur Smith and Rodgers, are either in college or contemplating their football future.
There’s also a question of what Pittsburgh is willing to pay. Even as GM Omar Khan publicly states he wants Gainwell back, another team could simply make an over-the-top offer that Gainwell can’t pass up. A mid-round rookie who signed a cheap one-year deal last offseason, this is Gainwell’s first and perhaps only chance at a sizable payday. Money drives free agency decisions and Gainwell is no different.
“The Steelers always tell these guys, they always encourage these guys, ‘Go out there, get your number,'” Fittipaldo said. “‘Tell us what the number is and then we’ll see if we can make that work.’ I would imagine it would be a similar scenario.”
The NFL’s legal tampering period opens Monday at Noon/EST. Contracts can’t be officially signed until Wednesday at 4 PM/EST but deals can be verbally agreed to. Only rarely does one side go back on its word. Meaning, by early next week, the Steelers will probably know if Gainwell will be part of the team in 2026 or not.
If he departs, Pittsburgh must fill the varied production he offered as a runner, receiver, returner, and coverage player. In 2025, Gainwell was the NFL’s only running back to log 500-plus offensive snaps and another 100-plus on special teams. His role was unique and won’t easily be replaced by one man.
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