KennyGainwell

News: 7 days agoGainwell has been utilized primarily as a receiver out of the backfield in training camp while Bucky Irving has handled most of the rushing workload, Adam Silvon of Pewterreport.com reports.

Spin: Irving is likely to get the majority of rushing opportunities in the regular season, and the Buccaneers also have Sean Tucker, who was used prominently in the red zone in 2025. Gainwell's niche is expected to be passing situations, so it's good to see him building early rapport with quarterback Baker Mayfield. Gainwell led the Steelers with 73 catches in the 2025 regular season, while Tampa Bay's running backs combined for 78 receptions last season.

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.