KennyGainwell

News: 1 day agoGainwell is one of three running backs on Tampa Bay's 53-man roster, along with Bucky Irving and Sean Tucker (undisclosed), the latter of whom didn't practice Wednesday, per Greg Auman of Fox Sports.

Spin: Gainwell signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Buccaneers in March after leading the Steelers with 73 catches in the 2025 regular season. He's likely to fill a change-of-pace role while playing primarily in passing situations, much like Rachaad White did for the past couple seasons in a Buccaneers backfield that's expected to be led by Irving as long as the latter stays healthy. Tucker could be a thorn in the side of both Gainwell and Irving from a fantasy perspective if Tucker reprises his red-zone role from 2025, which helped him punch in a team-high seven rushing touchdowns.

ESPN Fantasy Projection: Gainwell signed with the Buccaneers following a second-half breakout with Pittsburgh last season. After playing sparingly during the first four-and-a-half years of his career, Gainwell averaged 13.3 touches, 85.0 yards and 17.8 fantasy points from Week 8 on last season (eight games). Only five backs scored more points than Gainwell after Week 10. He did most of his damage as a receiver (top six among RBs in targets, catches and receiving yards) and will now look to earn a similar role alongside Bucky Irving in Tampa Bay. Gainwell's strong season suggests he'll have a role, but the 23-year-old Irving is likely to operate as the lead back. Gainwell is best valued as a bench/insurance stash with some flex appeal in deep PPR leagues.