The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have made an intriguing addition to their backfield, signing running back Kenneth Gainwell in a move that could reshape their rushing attack heading into the upcoming National Football League season. With the departure of Rachaad White, Tampa Bay needed a versatile back who could contribute both on the ground and in the passing game. Gainwell appears to fit that role perfectly, while also forming a potentially dynamic tandem with young running back Bucky Irving.
A Perfect Complement in the Backfield
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) catches a pass and runs it in for a touchdown in the first quarter of the NFL Week 11 game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Cincinnati Bengals at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh on Sunday, Nov. 16, 2025. The Steelers led 10-6 at halftime.
Irving has emerged as an explosive runner capable of breaking big plays with his speed and vision. However, pairing him with a versatile back like Gainwell could make Tampa Bay’s rushing attack even more dangerous. Gainwell proved last season with the Steelers that he is a reliable dual-threat back who can:
Advertisement
Contribute as a pass catcher
Handle third-down responsibilities
Provide steady production in rotational carries
This combination allows the Buccaneers to keep Irving fresh while maintaining a balanced and unpredictable rushing attack.
Filling the Void Left by Rachaad White
Nov 9, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA: Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) hands the ball off to running back Rachaad White (1) during the first quarter against the New England Patriots at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
White had played a significant role in Tampa Bay’s offense over the past few seasons, particularly as a receiving back out of the backfield. Replacing that skill set was a priority for the Buccaneers, and Gainwell’s ability to catch passes and operate in space makes him a natural replacement.
His versatility also allows the offense to maintain flexibility in play-calling, something modern NFL offenses rely on heavily.
Advertisement
A Smart Offensive Fit
The Buccaneers’ offense has increasingly focused on creating mismatches and using running backs in multiple ways. Gainwell’s skill set fits that philosophy well.
By pairing Irving’s explosiveness with Gainwell’s versatility, Tampa Bay could develop one of the more balanced backfields in the league.
Advertisement
A Backfield Built for the Future
Nov 30, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving (7) runs during the second half against the Arizona Cardinals at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images
While Irving may remain the primary ball carrier, Gainwell gives the Buccaneers a reliable second option who can contribute in several areas of the offense.
If the two backs develop strong chemistry within the system, Tampa Bay’s rushing attack could become a key strength for the team moving forward. For a Buccaneers squad looking to stay competitive in the NFC, the addition of Kenneth Gainwell could prove to be one of the more underrated moves of the offseason.
—Enjoy free coverage of the top news & trending stories on The Big Lead—
NFL:2026 NFL Free Agency’s biggest Day 1 winners
WORLD BASEBALL CLASSIC:Randy Arozarena slams Cal Raleigh after he refuses to shake hands at WBC
MARCH MADNESS:5 potential bracket-busting March Madness 2026 Cinderella teams
NBA:Adam Silver sends message after cancelling Hawks’ ‘Magic Monday’ promotion
PARALYMPICS:2026 Winter Paralympics medal count standings entering March 10
VIRAL:Wasserman Agency reveals new name, cancelling disgraced founder