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As the Pittsburgh Steelers navigate the 2026 offseason, one of their bigger decisions to make is what to do with running back Kenneth Gainwell.
Gainwell was one of the best offensive weapons for the Steelers in 2025. He posted career-highs in rushing yards, receiving yards and touchdowns while serving in a shared backfield with Jaylen Warren.
As a result of his impressive showing, Gainwell notched the team MVP award, which was well-deserved for the standout veteran running back.
When it comes to the Steelers' desire to keep Gainwell, general manager Omar Khan made it clear the team wants him back.
"Yeah, Kenny was great to have around, and he knows we want him back and we've been in communication with his people," Khan told reporters while down at the NFL Combine on Tuesday.
Gainwell's $1.79 million contract was a true bargain for the Steelers last season, but his price is certainly going to go up after what we saw in 2025. If that price gets too high, Pittsburgh might go elsewhere.
The simple fact that the Steelers are even considering re-signing Gainwell shows Pittsburgh is anything but sold on 2025 third-round pick Kaleb Johnson.
Re-signing Gainwell would be bad news for Johnson, who barely saw the field last season with Gainwell and Warren operating ahead of him.
If Gainwell comes back, or if the Steelers sign another veteran running back, Johnson will once again be relegated to a minor role and the fears over him ultimately being a bust will only increase.
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