{
  "id": 11494381,
  "title": "Kenneth Gainwell on why he signed offseason deal to be Buccaneers backup",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/02/kenneth-gainwell-on-why-he-signed-offseason-deal-to-be-buccaneers",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-02T17:55:18.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/kenneth-gainwell-why-signed-offseason-175518184.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Kenneth Gainwell, a seasoned running back with a Super Bowl victory under his belt, signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the offseason to serve as the established backup. Standing at 27 years old, Gainwell had a breakout season with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2021, accumulating 537 rushing yards and five touchdowns while contributing 73 receptions for 486 yards and three receiving touchdowns. Additionally, he served as the team's kickoff returner, tallying 26 returns for 633 yards.\n\nThe Buccaneers entered the offseason with a clear starter in Bucky Irving, and Gainwell signed on to bolster the team's second line-up. However, through the first three games of the season, Gainwell has only managed 10 carries for 21 rushing yards, falling short of his initial expectations.\n\nDespite the lackluster statistics, Gainwell remains optimistic about his role on the team. He emphasized that he joined the Buccaneers with the mindset of helping them secure a playoff berth, a division title, and make a significant playoff run. Gainwell has been actively involved in special teams plays and is prepared to fulfill any necessary offensive duties, such as blocking or executing on third down situations.\n\nWhile Gainwell's playtime has been limited, he still has accumulated 42% of the offensive snaps, which indicates he has been given legitimate opportunities to contribute. With the Buccaneers facing a winless streak in Week 4 against the Green Bay Packers, Gainwell remains resolute in his commitment to help the team overcome this challenging period. He remains confident that the team's unity and perseverance will ultimately lead to success.",
  "summary": "Kenneth Gainwell details why he signed to be the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' backup running back.",
  "key_points": [
    "Kenneth Gainwell signed with Buccaneers as backup running back.",
    "27-year-old Gainwell had breakout season with Steelers in 2021.",
    "Gainwell optimistic despite limited playtime and Buccaneers' struggles."
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}