Key Highlights
- Kenneth Gainwell has posted career-highs in rushing yards (451), scrimmage yards (783) and receptions (57).
- Steelers’ quarterback Aaron Rodgers praised Gainwell’s performance, calling him one of the best bargains in football.
- The Steelers have successfully pivoted to address weak points in their roster with players like Marquez Valdes-Scantling and Adam Thielen.
- Coach Mike Tomlin highlighted the importance of depth and adaptability in maintaining team success.
The Rise of Kenneth Gainwell: A Bargain Player’s Unexpected Triumph
PITTSBURGH — Kenneth Gainwell, a first-year Steelers running back signed to a minimal one-year deal worth $1.79 million, has become more than just a depth addition; he’s been a cornerstone of the team’s success in recent weeks. His career-highs in rushing yards (451), scrimmage yards (783) and receptions (57) speak volumes about his versatility on the field.
During Monday’s game against the Dolphins, Gainwell was just one of several under-the-radar players whose performance far exceeded their salary cap hit. Quarterback Aaron Rodgers highlighted a number of these “castoffs,” including Gainwell, in his postgame analysis. “There’s some castoffs if you look at our roster, which makes it really special,” Rodgers said.
Steelers’ Strategic Roster Moves: Castoffs to Key Players
The Steelers’ offseason approach to roster building was far from perfect. At receiver, the team believed Roman Wilson would take a significant step forward in Year 2 to solidify that position group and overcome the loss of George Pickens. However, Wilson has struggled, catching just 12 passes for 166 yards and two touchdowns.
Similarly, at cornerback, the Steelers initially felt veteran Darius Slay would be part of a transformation in the secondary.
Unfortunately, his performance did not meet expectations, leading to his release. These missteps have forced the team to adapt quickly, focusing on acquiring players who can fill critical roles and provide depth.
“There’s a fine line between being a Pro Bowler and a backup in this business,” coach Mike Tomlin said. “These guys are at the tip top of the food chain in terms of what they do.”
Filling Weak Points: Valdes-Scantling, Thielen, and Samuel’s Contributions
Recognizing a need at receiver, the Steelers went to work remodeling that group on the fly. They signed Marquez Valdes-Scantling to the practice squad, where he toiled for several weeks before joining the active roster. Later, they claimed Adam Thielen off waivers.
Those moves have been meaningful in two of the most important games of the season.
After the Steelers beat Baltimore two weeks ago to take control of the AFC North, Rodgers said he doesn’t believe in coincidences. “Obviously me and Aaron have played together for a long time,” Valdes-Scantling said. “It was great to get back in the end zone and catch one from him.”
With James Pierre sidelined due to a calf injury, safety Asante Samuel earned his first start as a Steeler against Miami. On the Dolphins’ second possession, he made an impactful interception of Tua Tagovailoa.
Adaptability and Depth: The Steelburgh Roster’s Strength
The list of contributors goes beyond those additions. Outside linebackers Nick Herbig and Jack Sawyer played starter-like reps due to T.J. Watt’s absence.
Dylan Cook, the fourth left tackle on the depth chart at one point, allowed zero pressures on 28 drop-backs. Fellow safety Jabrill Peppers has stepped into a starting role at times this year.
“I think your ability to adapt and adjust often defines a collective,” Tomlin said. “We’ve had some opportunities to do so and have had some success at times.”
The Steelers’ journey from a team with many questions to one that is now leading the AFC North showcases the importance of depth and adaptability in maintaining team success. As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how these strategic roster moves will impact their playoff prospects.