The running back will likely be staying in Pennsylvania in 2025 … just not in Philly.
Free agency moves are in full swing, and yet another player from the Super Bowl winning Eagles team will be heading elsewhere. Running back Kenny Gainwell entered the offseason as an unrestricted free agent after playing the final year on his rookie contract, and now he’s expected to sign with the Steelers on a one-year deal per reports.
Sources: The #Steelers are finalizing a 1-year with former #Eagles RB Kenneth Gainwell.
Gainwell, who had 1,906 total yards and 13 TDs in four years with Philly, stays in the state of Pennsylvania. pic.twitter.com/PbyHwb9Ctk
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 12, 2025
Gainwell filled his role perfectly during his time in Philly. The Eagles never asked him to be a three-down back, or to be RB1 over an extended stretch, they needed him to come in when Saquon Barkley (or Miles Sanders or D’Andre Swift) needed some rest and in specific situations. His usage over the years fluctuated, and while fans maybe didn’t want him on the field for third-and-long, his teammates and coaches did. They all had a big respect for Gainwell and how he contributed to the offense.
It’s not exactly surprising that the Eagles wouldn’t look to keep Gainwell on a second contract after signing Barkley to an extension and having Will Shipley — who did some impressive things during his rookie season. Gainwell will now have one year in Pittsburgh to prove he’s ready and able to have a bigger role in an offense and try and earn his big pay day. The Steelers didn’t re-sign Najee Harris so there’s a nice opportunity for Gainwell to shine.
