Who Should I Start? Kenneth Gainwell or Emanuel Wilson

Sunday, August 3, 10:13 AM

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.

Thursday, September 4, 11:34 AM

Green Bay Packers running back Emanuel Wilson has officially been named the team's backup option to open 2025, ahead of teammates Chris Brooks and the injured MarShawn Lloyd (hamstring). Wilson was the Pack's second-leading rusher in 2024 (502 yards), appearing in all 17 games during his second professional season. The 26-year-old flashed as he spelled starter Josh Jacobs, and has rushed for over 4.87 yards per carry in each of his first two campaigns. His upside (and floor) will be limited while Jacobs has a stranglehold on the lead job, but at least for the early part of this year, he'll be the handcuff to own. This situation could become more fluid when Lloyd returns following the first four games, but Wilson will get a chance to run away with the second-string job while he's shelved, and is capable enough to do so.