Steelers Now
Pittsburgh Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell foresees big things for his new team’s backfield in 2025.
PITTSBURGH — The Pittsburgh Steelers have a new-look running back room following the departure of Najee Harris in free agency and offseason additions of Kenneth Gainwell and third-round pick Kaleb Johnson. Gainwell thinks his new backfield can be special just like the one he was a part of in Philadelphia last season.
“It’s been exciting seeing Jaylen [Warren]’s work ethic. That’s the same way I attack the game,” Gainwell said. “I feel like we can rely on each other real good. And then bringing KJ along with us, man, I think it’s gonna be a great show. Hopefully you’re ready for it.”
It’s unclear how exactly the room will shake out, but each player has his own strengths that the Steelers will surely try to utilize.
Warren will likely get the first shot at being Pittsburgh’s starter after spending the past three years as the 1B to Harris’ 1A. In fact, he showed on several occasions that he should have arguably been the team’s starter while rushing for 1,674 yards (4.8 yards per carry) and six touchdowns.
However, Gainwell has an argument of his own as he is bringing championship pedigree to the Steelers. Over the past four years, he served as the Eagles backup and was productive when given opportunities, rushing for 1,185 yards (4.2 yards per carry) and 12 touchdowns.
Then there’s Johnson, who provides a much bigger body type at the position, standing at 6-foot-1, 224 pounds, making him the ideal candidate to fill Harris’ role.
The 21-year-old is coming off a breakout season at Iowa, where he rushed for a career-high 1,537 yards (6.4 yards per carry) and 21 touchdowns in 2024.
Only time will tell how Pittsburgh will decide to use each player, but it’s safe to assume fans will see all three in some facet this year. Like Gainwell, that should have fans excited to see what they can do.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Kenneth Gainwell Sets High Expectations for Steelers New-Look RB Room: ‘It’s Gonna Be a Great Show’
