Steelers Adding Kenneth Gainwell; Backfield Picture Forming?

2025 Fantasy Football Impact

Gainwell looks like a depth addition for a backfield that has shed Najee Harris (signed with the Chargers) and tendered restricted free agent Jaylen Warren.

The second-round tender placed on Warren should basically guarantee that he'll return. We'll see whether the team works out a longer contract or sticks with just that one-year deal.

Either way, Warren should be the much better bet for touches vs. Gainwell, who has averaged just 4.2 carries and 1.5 receptions per game for his career.

Gainwell's also coming off a career-worst 3.9 yards per carry -- with the same team that supported 5.8 yards per rush for Saquon Barkley.

Having Warren and Gainwell on hand certainly doesn't keep the Steelers from getting in on other RBs, either among low-level free agents or in the draft.

Dynasty Impact

Gainwell was an enticing prospect entering the league. But his quiet four seasons followed by a small contract on his first shot at free agency leaves little dynasty appeal -- even as he heads into only his age-26 season.

Best Ball Impact

You could stash Gainwell late in best ball drafts now that he has a team. He'll almost certainly need a teammate injury or two to offer any value, though.

Be careful not to overrate Warren just yet. He's the current best bet to lead Pittsburgh in touches, but the Steelers also look like a good bet to draft a RB. In what round? We'll see.

Warren sits 23rd among RBs in best ball ADP right now -- overrated according to our ADP Market Index.