Baker Mayfield Praises New Teammate Kenneth Gainwell

Star quarterback Baker Mayfield has expressed that one of his teammates, Kenneth Gainwell, has greatly impressed him due to his skills during the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ practices. This offseason, the Buccaneers signed the running back to a one-year, $14 million contract to enhance their backfield strength.

Mayfield shared his admiration after witnessing Gainwell’s performance at training camp. “He’s much more than a gadget guy. I’ve been completely overwhelmed by his talent. I wasn’t aware until later in training camp that he was a receiver when he started college,” Mayfield said. “He stays true to his tracks and reads his blocks very well.” Mayfield praised Gainwell as a “veteran presence” and commended his leadership in the locker room.

Gainwell joined the Buccaneers after four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he contributed to their Super Bowl LIX victory. Last season, he played with the Pittsburgh Steelers, appearing in 17 games, starting just two. Despite being the second option behind Jaylen Warren, he accumulated 537 rushing yards and five touchdowns. Gainwell’s versatility as a receiver also shone through with 486 receiving yards and three touchdowns, tied with tight end Pat Freiermuth for the second-most receiving yards on the team.

In Tampa Bay, Gainwell will serve as a backup to Bucky Irving. The Buccaneers aim to improve from last year’s 8-9 record after missing the playoffs. Irving faced challenges last season, participating in only 10 games due to injuries.

Although Gainwell and Mayfield did not play in the first preseason game, head coach Todd Bowles announced that Mayfield will be active in the upcoming preseason game against the Kansas City Chiefs on August 22. Gainwell is expected to see some action alongside other healthy players in this game.