The Pittsburgh Steelers team MVP is headed elsewhere as a free agent.
Running back Kenneth Gainwell, who led the Steelers in receptions last season, agreed to a two-year, $14 million contract with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, according to reports. He was the second former Steelers player lost to free agency Monday after cornerback James Pierre.
Pending free agents could negotiate with other teams once the legal tampering period began at noon. Free agents can officially sign contracts starting at 4 p.m. Wednesday.
Gainwell’s new deal with the Bucs provides him with a significant pay raise over the $1.79 million he made last season.
The 26-year-old gained 1,023 yards from scrimmage and scored eight touchdowns after signing a one-year deal with the Steelers. He led the team with 73 catches.
His departure leaves leading rusher Jaylen Warren and 2025 third-round draft pick Kaleb Johnson in the Steelers backfield.
