The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have bolstered their backfield by signing running back Kenny Gainwell to a two‑year deal, positioning him alongside Bucky Irving as the team heads into the 2026 campaign.
Gainwell’s breakout 2025 campaign saw him average 4.7 yards per carry while punching in five rushing touchdowns, a marked improvement over his previous seasons.
A Dual‑Threat Weapon
Beyond the ground game, he proved to be a reliable receiving option, hauling in 73 of 85 targets for 486 yards and three scores, showcasing his versatility.
The departure of veteran receiver Mike Evans and the exit of Rachaad White have left a vacuum in the offense, creating additional opportunities for playmakers who can stretch the field.
New offensive coordinator Zac Robinson, who previously worked with versatile backs, is expected to exploit Gainwell’s skill set in both the run and pass game, giving him a flexible role.
Fantasy analysts, including Bleacher Report’s Zach Buckley, label Gainwell a sleeper for the upcoming season, noting that his increased workload could translate into a high‑upside pick in later rounds.