Kenneth Gainwell Delivers Jaw-Dropping TD as Steelers' Unsung Hero Continues Breakout Run
Don’t let the depth chart fool you-Kenneth Gainwell may be listed as the Steelers’ backup running back, but over the past month, he’s been playing like their offensive MVP. And in Week 16, he delivered what might go down as Pittsburgh’s most electrifying touchdown catch of the season.
With the Steelers facing a 2nd-and-10 from the Lions’ 45-yard line just before halftime, Gainwell lined up out wide-a move that’s become more common as Pittsburgh finds creative ways to get the ball in his hands. What happened next was part circus act, part highlight-reel magic.
As Gainwell sprinted down the sideline, Detroit linebacker Alex Anzalone tugged him to the turf in what looked like a textbook pass interference. But Gainwell never lost focus.
While lying on his back, he somehow secured the ball, popped up without being touched, and darted into the end zone. Initially ruled down by contact, the call was overturned after a review confirmed that Gainwell had never been touched.
Touchdown Steelers.
The play tied the game at 10 heading into halftime and gave Pittsburgh a much-needed jolt. Anzalone was flagged for interference, but the penalty was declined-Gainwell’s effort made sure of that.
By the break, Gainwell had already racked up a team-high 52 receiving yards on three catches. His ground game hadn’t found much traction in the first half, but that’s been the story of his season: when the Steelers need a play, Gainwell finds a way to deliver-whether it’s as a runner, receiver, or spark plug in key moments.
Sunday’s score marked Gainwell’s seventh touchdown of the season, tying him with DK Metcalf for the team lead. Even more impressive? Four of those touchdowns have come since Week 11, as the 2025 campaign has quietly turned into a breakout year for the versatile back.
Since mid-November, Gainwell has been on a tear, averaging 88 scrimmage yards per game over his last five. And he’s doing it while sharing the backfield with Jaylen Warren, which makes his production all the more impressive.
Gainwell’s emergence has been a bright spot in Pittsburgh’s offense, especially during a stretch where consistency has been hard to come by. He’s proving that you don’t need to be the starter to be the difference-maker-and right now, the Steelers are riding his momentum into the season’s final stretch.