buccaneers rumors
buccaneers rumors
In the latest Buccaneers rumors, Tampa Bay was expected to return to the postseason, but could be forced to trade veteran running back Kenneth Gainwell ahead of the NFL deadline. According to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox, Gainwell could be traded as the Buccaneers are 0-4 and will likely lose Thursday Night’s contest against the Dallas Cowboys. QB Baker Mayfield signed a new contract extension after teasing he’d leave in 2027, who is dealing dislocated thumb. By the time Mayfield returns, it may be too late for postseason contention, and a trade could be imminent:
“The Bucs planned on being firmly in the NFC South mix this season and signed running back Kenny Gainwell to a two-year, $14 million deal in order to flesh out their backfield. However, Gainwell has barely seen the field behind starter Bucky Irving, and if Tampa can’t climb back into the playoff picture, he could have much more value to a team with an injured starter,” Knox said.
Last year, the veteran proved himself under the Pittsburgh Steelers’ run game, finishing with 1,023 scrimmage yards and eight touchdowns. Unfortunately, he hasn’t given much to work with despite being behind Irving.
buccaneers rumors
Dec 7, 2025; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell (14) runs with the ball against the Baltimore Ravens for a touchdown during the first half at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-Imagn Images
Buccaneers Rumors: TB Urged to Dump $14M RB; Trade Possible
Starter or Backup?
Gainwell could arguably start, but isn’t expected. Contending teams may be looking to add a low-stakes backup option, and that’s where he likely fits. Luckily, teams are looking to add depth.
Fortunately, the running back is still only 27 years old. He hasn’t shown signs of slowing down, but if an offense gives him a sizeable opportunity, he could exceed expectations.
A 2027 fifth-round pick in exchange for the veteran running back makes sense. However, teams are expected to negotiate if Gainwell is made available. Meanwhile, the Buccaneers have failed to find a long-term answer behind Irving after losing Rachaad White to Washington this past free agency. With another loss looming, the Buccaneers could trade the former Steeler to these three teams.
buccaneers rumors
Sep 14, 2025; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Seattle Seahawks linebacker Tyrice Knight (48) and safety Julian Love (20) tackle Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell (middle) during the fourth quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-Imagn Images
Potential Destinations
Denver Broncos
The Denver Broncos have a strong running back unit, but could use another. The Broncos re-signed veteran JK Dobbins to a two-year deal, but he has faced injury concerns. Meanwhile, RJ Harvey came off an impressive 2025 campaign, and while Tyler Badie hasn’t seen much of the field, it might make sense to add Gainwell instead. The Buccaneers veteran won’t start, but it’d help Bo Nix lean on another receiving-running back to dump passes to.
Denver has a strong passing game, but the Broncos should anticipate the worst-case scenario, and adding the running back could give them solid depth.
Kansas City Chiefs
Meanwhile, the Kansas City Chiefs overhauled their running back room after letting Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt walk. Hunt remains a free agent, but the Chiefs aren’t expected to re-sign him. While they’re likely to reunite with Tyreek Hill, especially after Tyquan Thornton’s gruesome injury, they could add a running back. Fortunately, the Chiefs have strong depth behind Kenneth Walker, as Emmett Johnson has shown flashes.
However, Patrick Mahomes is no longer the same speedy and mobile pocket passer. Adding Gainwell as a low-stakes trade acquisition could give the Super Bowl champion another short-pass receiver.
New England Patriots
Speaking of short passes, this might be perfect for QB Drake Maye. After all, the QB has heavily utilized RB Rhamondre Stevenson, and while he has shown excitement, he isn’t an All-Pro. Treveyon Henderson remains the future of this run game, but could use another running back, especially after deciding not to re-sign Antonio Gibson, who remains a free agent.
Gainwell won’t top 500 yards from scrimmage, but could be a safety as Maye works through offensive chemistry among Romeo Doubs and AJ Brown.