Baker Mayfield Praises New Teammate Kenneth Gainwell

Star quarterback Baker Mayfield has spoken highly of his new teammate at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, running back Kenneth Gainwell. Describing him as ‘completely overwhelmed,’ Mayfield expressed admiration for Gainwell’s talents during the team’s practice sessions.

This offseason, the Buccaneers signed Gainwell to a one-year deal worth $14 million to strengthen their backfield. According to Mayfield, Gainwell’s performance during training camp has been impressive. ‘He’s much more than a gadget guy,’ Mayfield shared. ‘I’ve been completely overwhelmed with his talent. I only recently learned he was a receiver in college.’

Gainwell’s past performance includes four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles, where he proved instrumental in their Super Bowl LIX victory. He then moved to the Pittsburgh Steelers, where he played 17 games, starting only two, and achieved 537 rushing yards along with five touchdowns.

Mayfield highlighted Gainwell’s versatility as a receiving target. Last season with the Steelers, Gainwell tied for the second-most receiving yards with tight end Pat Freiermuth, accumulating 486 yards and three touchdowns. Fans might expect to see him receiving passes from Mayfield in the upcoming season.

In Tampa Bay, Gainwell will serve as a backup to starting running back Bucky Irving. The team aims to improve its performance after an 8-9 record last season and missing the playoffs. Irving missed significant playtime due to injuries, participating in only 10 games.

Despite not playing in the Buccaneers’ first NFL preseason game, Gainwell is expected to join Mayfield and other healthy players in the upcoming preseason match against the Kansas City Chiefs. Head coach Todd Bowles confirmed Mayfield’s participation, raising the possibility of Gainwell showcasing his skills on the field.