Star quarterback Baker Mayfield recently admitted feeling “completely overwhelmed” after witnessing the abilities of one of his teammates during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ practices.
This offseason, the Bucs brought in running back Kenneth Gainwell on a one-year deal worth $14 million to strengthen the backfield. Mayfield shared his thoughts, saying he has been quite impressed with Gainwell’s performance in training camp.
“He’s much more than a gadget guy. I’ve just been completely overwhelmed with how talented he is. I didn’t know until later in the training camp… he was a receiver going into college,” Mayfield commented.
Gainwell’s skills in the run game have particularly stood out to Mayfield. He praised Gainwell for staying true to his tracks and reading his blocks effectively.
Mayfield expressed his belief in Gainwell’s impact, calling him a “huge addition” and acknowledging his “veteran presence” in the locker room. Gainwell leads by example, which Mayfield holds in high regard.
Before joining the Buccaneers, Gainwell spent four seasons as a standout running back with the Philadelphia Eagles. During his tenure there, he was part of the team that won Super Bowl LIX.
Gainwell moved within the state last season, signing with the Pittsburgh Steelers. There, he played in 17 games and started in two. He tallied 537 rushing yards and five touchdowns, serving as RB2 behind Jaylen Warren.
As Mayfield hinted, Gainwell adds an extra dimension to the field as a receiving option. For the Steelers, he matched tight end Pat Freiermuth with the second-most receiving yards at 486, along with three touchdowns. Gainwell appears likely to continue catching passes from Mayfield in the upcoming season.
Gainwell joins the Bucs as a backup to starting running back Bucky Irving. The Buccaneers aim to perform better this season after an 8-9 record and missing the playoffs last year. Irving was limited to 10 games last season due to injuries.
Gainwell did not play in the first NFL preseason game for the team, and neither did Mayfield. However, head coach Todd Bowles confirmed Mayfield will participate in the upcoming preseason match on Saturday, Aug. 22, against the Kansas City Chiefs, along with other available players. Gainwell might see some action then as well.
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