It’s powerful for gamers on a brand new workforce to make an impression this early on because the Bucs are within the early levels of preparation of the 2026 season. With that stated, veteran operating again Kenneth Gainwell has gotten nothing however rave evaluations with regards to his accountability, professionalism, and talent to slot in with a locker room.
The Bucs signed Kenneth Gainwell to a two-year contract in free company. It wasn’t a “splash” signing, nevertheless it was the largest transfer they made on the offensive aspect. This signing goes to repay in additional methods than one. His influence on the workforce will likely be felt in a number of aspects of the workforce.
Kenneth Gainwell Will get Referred to as A Stud By Bucs’ OC
“I think the first thing that sticks out with Kenny (Gainwell) is that he’s a true pro,” Bucs offensive coordinator Zac Robinson stated. “You’ll be able to inform how intentional he’s when he works. The tape was excellent, actually from whenever you watched him in Philly, restricted alternatives. And then you definately noticed final 12 months, simply what he can do in an prolonged function.
“Tremendous excited that that was capable of get achieved and that he was capable of be right here. Simply being round him, he’s a stud man. Like a man you simply need to be round, a man that may ignite his workforce by the model that he performs. “
Bucs RB Kenneth Gainwell – Photograph by: Cliff Welch/PR
He’s going to work alongside beginning operating again Bucky Irving, and given Irving’s dimension and harm historical past from a season in the past, the Bucs had been sensible to make sure they’ve a top quality operating again two and three with Sean Tucker additionally returning. Irving must be prepared by coaching camp as he recovers from offseason surgical procedure, however even when he takes longer to get better, Gainwell will likely be able to take the mantle because the starter.
Gainwell’s traits match completely for the Bucs. He’s a fast runner, an above common receiver and he might be relied on to go block. He’s coming off of a season the place he had over 1,000 yards from scrimmage between dashing and receiving whereas scoring eight touchdowns. Gainwell can do all of it.
Bucs OC Zac Robinson – Photograph by: Cliff Welch/PR
This additionally means we would see extra of the fan favourite Pony Bundle within the backfield, which means that Irving and Gainwell will lineup within the backfield on the identical time on the play. Gainwell, whether or not beginning or backing up, provides the Bucs a number of choices.
“The skillset is pretty cool, you got Bucky, he’s got a unique skillset. Kenny and him can kind of match each other with what they can do in the pass game,” Robinson stated. “It’s been awesome to get to know Kenny, and really the rest of the guys. The biggest thing that sticks out is just how intentional he is, how great of a worker he is, he just leads by example and he’s been awesome so far.”
Gainwell Will Likley Have A Position On Particular Groups
And let’s not neglect about Gainwell’s prowess on particular groups. He’s had 53 kick returns in his profession, together with 26 makes an attempt for for 633 yards final 12 months with the Steelers. Gainwell had a protracted of 36 yards on a return and will actually assist in the division for Tampa Bay, too.
Bucs RB Kenneth Gainwell – Photograph by: IMAGN Photographs – Barry Reeger
Conveniently sufficient, Gainwell wasn’t the one participant that went from Pittsburgh to Tampa for the 2026 season as“> Danny Smith was employed because the Bucs’ particular groups coordinator. Smith raved concerning the caliber of individual that Gainwell his, whereas additionally telling a humorous anecdote about preventing for extra snaps.
“He’s a class person and a great player,” Smith stated. “I love being around those types.”
Then he went into his story.
“Kenny Gainwell will combat me about being on particular groups. I took him off some conditions final 12 months. He’s in my workplace and really particularly stated ‘What’d I do mistaken?’ I stated ‘You didn’t do something mistaken’ He stated ‘Why the hell I ain’t the 2 on that kickoff?’
Bucs ST coordinator Danny Smith – Photograph by: Cliff Welch/PR
“We’ll pick and choose, we’ll make good decisions with people, personnel. He was back returning punts today if you watched any of today’s practice. The kid can do it a lot of things. He’s good on a lot of things, he’s a tireless worker, he’s a great person and a great player. He and I have become close over the year and I’d do anything in the world for him.”
The Bucs have a fantastic probability this 12 months to get again to type within the operating again room. It might be nice for Irving to cleared the path, however even when he struggles once more ,we’re going to be seeing lots Kenneth Gainwell this season. He’s greater than able to getting the job achieved.
