While Kenneth Gainwell outsnapped teammate Jaylen Warren in Week 1 (30-25), the roles reversed in Week 2 with the latter leading the duo 36-26. Despite less time on the field, the 26-year-old picked up five targets -- again besting his backfield mate in that category. Warren still out-gained him in totality -- and handily, 134-36 -- but there's still a lot to like about his usage. For starters, the Steelers are throwing the ball at one of the league's highest rates (63.7%), and Gainwell still holds the edge over rookie Kaleb Johnson in the pecking order. Johnson should take over in due time, but while he's still adjusting to the pros, Gainwell carries value as the handcuff to own.
Sep 15, 2025 11:43 AM EST
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell will look to make more of an impact in Week 2 when his team takes on the Seattle Seahawks at home. With rookie rusher Kaleb Johnson toting the rock just once in his NFL debut last weekend, Gainwell operated as the team's clear-cut No. 2 backfield option. The former Philadelphia Eagle didn't turn his touches into much, but he saw just four fewer carries than teammate Jaylen Warren, and out-targeted him 4-2. Warren handily outgained him, though Gainwell should see decent volume on a team that has split backfield work over the past few campaigns. His standalone value is slightly diminished as of now, and stands to take a hit eventually when Johnson garners a larger workload. Still, he's ahead of him in the pecking order for the meantime. Gainwell is RotoBaller's PPR RB47 ahead of Week 2.
Sep 12, 2025 11:35 AM EST
Going into the season as a fantasy afterthought, Pittsburgh Steelers veteran Kenneth Gainwell was the running back on the field for the majority of his team's Week 1 snaps. In a back-and-forth matchup with the New York Jets, Gainwell saw 29 snaps to Jaylen Warren's 25. While Warren did lead the position in carries and total opportunities, most expected his split to be with rookie Kaleb Johnson and not the journeyman Gainwell. In speaking with reporters on Tuesday, head coach Mike Tomlin suggested that Gainwell could continue to see the field moving forward, citing the big-play ability he's shown throughout his career. While Gainwell deserves a look on the waiver wire by any managers hit hard by injury in Week 1, the expectation is still that the third-rounder Johnson, who saw only one snap in his NFL debut, will be worked into the offense, shortening Gainwell's fantasy shelf life considerably.
Sep 9, 2025 2:32 PM EST
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell is set to make his regular-season debut for the team in a Week 1 contest against the New York Jets. Gainwell, who spent the first four years of his career in Philadelphia, is listed as Pittsburgh's RB2 to open the campaign and should mix in behind Jaylen Warren. While rookie RB Kaleb Johnson is expected to eventually carve out a significant role, it may take some time before he earns snaps over the proven veterans. Still, it's unlikely that Gainwell offers much fantasy value, especially in this matchup. The Jets were solid against opposing backs last season, and Sunday's contest isn't projected to be high-scoring. Fantasy managers can keep an eye on his usage, but Gainwell can be left on waiver wires for the time being.
Sep 5, 2025 11:01 PM EST
Pittsburgh Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin praised running back Kenneth Gainwell's versatility as both a rusher and a receiver, saying that Gainwell has a "well-rounded game." Mike DeFabo of The Athletic writes that Steelers offensive coordinator Arthur Smith has been deploying Gainwell "in a variety of roles, including outside at receiver." Gainwell signed a one-year contract with Pittsburgh this offseason after spending the first four years of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles. In 17 games last year with Philadelphia, he recorded 406 yards from scrimmage and one touchdown on 91 total touches. Gainwell figures to be part of a Steelers' backfield committee that also features Jaylen Warren and rookie third-rounder Kaleb Johnson. Arthur Smith has shown a preference for utilizing multiple running backs in the past, and it sounds like Gainwell's usage could cut into the fantasy production for both Warren and Johnson.
Aug 3, 2025 10:13 AM EST
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell has been getting work in the team's passing game thus far in training camp. Gainwell, who signed with the Steelers this past offseason after spending the first four seasons of his career with the Philadelphia Eagles, has caught more passes (6) than he has had carries (5) through four practices. That may be a sign of things to come as the Steelers could opt to utilize him in a pass-catching role while rookie Kaleb Johnson handles the early downs and short-yardage situations. Gainwell showed skill in the passing game while with the Eagles, catching 102 of 138 targets across 66 career games. The veteran back is worth a look as a dart-throw option in the later rounds of fantasy drafts this summer.
Jul 29, 2025 9:10 AM EST
The Pittsburgh Steelers are finalizing an undisclosed one-year deal with former Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell on Tuesday night, sources tell FOX Sports' Jordan Schultz. Gainwell will stay in the state of Pennsylvania and become the change-of pace option behind Jaylen Warren after Najee Harris left in free agency to join the Los Angeles Chargers. The 25-year-old will most likely be used more as a third-down option for Pittsburgh in pass-catching situations. In his four years with the Eagles, Gainwell had 280 carries for 1,185 yards (4.2 yards per carry) and 12 rushing touchdowns while adding 102 catches on 138 targets for 721 yards and an addition touchdown in 66 games (four starts). The Steelers still also have running back Cordarrelle Patterson to share the workload. At best, Gainwell will be a low-ceiling RB3/flex in point-per-reception leagues in his new home.
Mar 11, 2025 9:15 PM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (knee, concussion) has been removed from the injury report ahead of Sunday's Super Bowl against the Kansas City Chiefs. Gainwell was limited to begin the week, but two straight full practice sessions has given Gainwell the all clear for Sunday's big game. Gainwell is the primary backup to running back Saquon Barkley in the Eagles backfield. That being said, Gainwell usually has a minimal role in the backfield, but at least the Eagles have him available if needed for Sunday's game.
Feb 7, 2025 4:42 PM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (concussion, knee) upgraded to a full practice on Thursday after he was listed as limited in the first practice of the week on Wednesday. Gainwell suffered a concussion in the NFC Championship win over the division-rival Washington Commanders and didn't practice at all last week, putting his status in doubt for the Super Bowl on Sunday, Feb. 9, against the Kansas City Chiefs. The 25-year-old could still end up being questionable for the big game, but his return to a full practice on Thursday gives him a much greater chance of clearing the league's concussion protocol and being active on Sunday. He will still need clearance from an independent neurologist, but another full practice on Friday could get him there. Gainwell has only seven carries for 32 yards and three catches for 26 yards in three playoff games, so his role will remain small if he's able to play.
Feb 6, 2025 6:25 PM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (concussion, knee) returned to practice on Wednesday and was limited. Gainwell suffered a concussion and knee injury in the victory over the division-rival Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship and was unable to practice at all last week. While his availability for Super Bowl LIX this Sunday in New Orleans against the Kansas City Chiefs is still up in the air, it's a good sign that Gainwell is back at practice to begin the week. The 25-year-old will likely need to upgrade to a full participant in practice by the end of the week, though, in order to be cleared by an independent neurologist to play in the Super Bowl. If Gainwell does gain clearance to play this weekend, he could have an even smaller workload behind starter Saquon Barkley and cede touches to third-stringer Will Shipley.
Feb 5, 2025 7:25 PM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (knee, concussion) is deemed questionable for next Sunday's meeting with the Kansas City Chiefs. Gainwell picked up a concussion in his team's win against their division-rival Washington Commanders last weekend and, unfortunately, hasn't been able to practice since sustaining the injury. He'd handle only five touches before leaving on Philly's first drive of the second half. The good news is that the 25-year-old will get an extra week of rest before squaring off with the reigning Super Bowl champions. However, he'll still need to gain clearance from an independent neurologist before taking the field. If, for some reason, Gainwell can't play in the Super Bowl, rookie running back Will Shipley will again act as a change of pace for superstar teammate Saquon Barkley.
Jan 31, 2025 9:47 PM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (concussion, knee) was listed as a non-participant in practice for the second straight day this week on Thursday. Gainwell suffered a concussion in the NFC Championship win over the division-rival Washington Commanders last Sunday and is also nursing a knee injury. His status is certainly up in the air for Super Bowl LIX on Sunday, Feb. 9, against the Kansas City Chiefs, but the good news is that Gainwell will have an extra week to try and clear the league's concussion protocol. Don't expect him to return to practice on Friday, but Gainwell is probably going to need to return to a full practice by the end of next week to have a shot at playing against the Chiefs. If he isn't cleared by an independent neurologist by next Friday, chances are it will be Will Shipley backing up Saquon Barkley in the Super Bowl for the Eagles.
Jan 30, 2025 7:17 PM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (concussion, knee) did not take part in practice with the rest of the team on Wednesday after suffering a concussion on Sunday in the win over the division-rival Washington Commanders in the NFC Championship. In addition to being in the league's concussion protocol this week, the 25-year-old backup running back is dealing with a knee injury. It means his status for Super Bowl LIX against the Kansas City Chiefs is up in the air, but the good news is he'll have an extra week to recover with the game not taking place until Sunday, Feb. 9. Still, Gainwell's status for the big game is currently up in the air. If he is unable to gain clearance to play against KC, Will Shipley would be the primary change-of-pace back for the Eagles behind stud rusher Saquon Barkley. Gainwell only has 10 touches for 58 scrimmage yards in three playoff games this year.
Jan 29, 2025 7:28 PM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell (concussion) has been ruled out for the remainder of Sunday's NFC Championship against the Washington Commanders. He had eight rushing yards prior to his departure, as well as an additional two catches for 16 receiving yards. Gainwell has operated as the Eagles' No. 2 running back all season long, taking a backseat to Saquon Barkley, who is a candidate for MVP and Offensive Player of the Year. As the Eagles look to close out the Commanders on Sunday, rookie Will Shipley will step up as the No. 2 option behind Barkley.
Jan 26, 2025 5:40 PM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell saw increased usage in Sunday's 20-13 win over the New York Giants but struggled to make an impact. Gainwell logged 11 carries for just 14 yards and added two receptions for nine yards. Rookie Will Shipley outperformed Gainwell, posting 32 rushing yards and 35 receiving yards. With Saquon Barkley set to return for the playoffs, Gainwell will return to his usual backup role. While his Week 18 output was disappointing, Gainwell has shown the ability to contribute effectively when needed. The Eagles will rely on their depth as they prepare to host the Green Bay Packers in the wild-card round.
Jan 6, 2025 9:38 AM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell is set to take on starting duties in Week 18 against the New York Giants, with Saquon Barkley sitting out to rest for the playoffs. Rookie Will Shipley's status could impact Gainwell's role, as Shipley is still in concussion protocol. If cleared, Shipley is expected to share backfield duties, likely limiting Gainwell's touches. This season, Gainwell has posted 276 rushing yards and one touchdown on 64 carries, adding 14 receptions for 107 yards through the air. Regardless of Shipley's status, the Eagles may elevate Tyrion Davis-Price from the practice squad to provide additional depth, ensuring a mix of backs takes the field. Given the uncertainty surrounding usage and the backup-heavy nature of Philadelphia's lineup, Gainwell is a risky but intriguing option for Week 18, especially in deeper fantasy leagues.
Jan 4, 2025 9:47 AM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell had only four touches (three carries, one reception) in the 41-7 blowout win over the division-rival Dallas Cowboys in Week 17 on Sunday. Given the score and the fact that the Eagles pulled star running back Saquon Barkley in the fourth quarter after he reached the elite milestone of 2,000 rushing yards in a single season, Gainwell's minimal involvement was a bit of a disappointment. He gained only four yards on his three rushing attempts and picked up five yards on his lone catch. The good news, though, is that with Philly locked into the No. 2 seed and with nothing to play for in the Week 18 regular-season finale against the division-rival New York Giants, Gainwell could easily operate as the team's lead back. However, that could also come with third-string QB Tanner McKee under center with both Jalen Hurts (concussion, finger) and Kenny Pickett (ribs) hurt.
Dec 30, 2024 12:44 PM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell normally only sees a handful of carries each week. However, Gainwell could see more touches in Week 17 with the Eagles likely going with a run-heavy approach on offense. Gainwell has been held to 26 rushing yards or less in each of his last five games. Saquon Barkley continues to get the bulk of the carries and that's likely to continue in Week 17. Gainwell has seen more involvement in the receiving game lately, but he still remains a risky streaming choice for Sunday's game against the Dallas Cowboys.
Dec 29, 2024 10:49 AM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell rushed for seven yards on his four carries in Sunday's 36-33 upset loss to the Washington Commanders. He added six yards on his lone target and returned four kicks for 87 yards. The fourth-year back was minimally involved in Week 16 and inefficient even when he did touch the ball. Teammate Saquon Barkley, on the other hand, racked up 150 yards and two scores across his 29 totes. With quarterback Jalen Hurts (concussion) leaving this one early, Philly's offense wasn't its usual self sans Barkley. Backup quarterback Kenny Pickett (ribs) led the way after Hurts' exit and would fill in for the 26-year-old again if he missed more time unless Pickett can't play with his apparent rib injury. Regardless, any other signal-caller at the helm would result in a downgrade for the Eagles' offense as a whole. Gainwell won't be a recommended option when his team hosts the visiting Dallas Cowboys in the fantasy championships.
Dec 22, 2024 9:04 PM EST
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell should not be started in any formats this weekend when he faces the Washington Commanders. Throughout the season, Gainwell has continued to be deployed as the clear No.2 option behind Saquon Barkley. However, with Saquon Barkley operating in a workhorse role, Gainwell has averaged just 4.5 attempts per game over the past eight weeks. While he has had limited opportunities he has posted a solid 4.7 yards per carry during this span and found the back of the end zone once. While Barkley will dominate the touches throughout the game, if the Eagles begin have a significant lead, they may opt to let Gainwell close out the afternoon to protect Barkley for the postseason. Given his minimal role on the offense, fantasy managers should continue to view him as a pure handcuff that holds very little standalone value.
Dec 21, 2024 2:34 PM EST
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