Kenneth Gainwell is having the kind of season that turns heads - not just because of the numbers, but because of how and when he’s delivering. With 451 rushing yards, 332 receiving yards, and six total touchdowns, all career highs, the Steelers’ running back has stepped into a larger role and made the most of it.
But ask Gainwell what’s behind his breakout, and he won’t point to himself first. He points to No.
“Aaron Rodgers,” Gainwell said without hesitation. “He is trusting me.”
That trust has been the foundation of Gainwell’s rise in Pittsburgh’s offense. Since Rodgers took over under center, Gainwell hasn’t just seen more touches - he’s become a reliable, go-to option in critical moments. Whether it’s catching passes out of the backfield, picking up blitzes, or grinding out tough yards between the tackles, he’s proving he can do a little bit of everything - and do it when it matters most.
Rodgers’ confidence in Gainwell has grown throughout the season, and it’s showing up in the game tape. On third downs, in red zone situations, or when the pocket collapses and a quick outlet is needed, Gainwell is often the answer. His hands, his awareness, and his ability to turn short gains into first downs have made him a key part of the Steelers’ late-season surge.
What’s made Rodgers trust him?
“Doing things the right way, being accountable, and earning trust,” Gainwell said. “My hands and just doing the small things is what I’ve been working at.”
That attention to detail is paying off in a big way - not just for Gainwell, but for an entire Steelers offense that’s finding its rhythm at the right time. Rodgers’ late-season resurgence has Pittsburgh knocking on the door of an AFC North title, and Gainwell’s emergence as a versatile, dependable weapon has been a major reason why.
He’s not just padding the stat sheet - he’s helping balance the offense, keeping defenses honest, and giving Rodgers a safety valve who can turn a check-down into a chunk play. In an offense that’s still finding its identity under Rodgers, Gainwell has become a steadying force.
As the Steelers gear up for a postseason push, Gainwell’s breakout couldn’t have come at a better time. He’s proving that he’s more than just a change-of-pace back - he’s a complete player, and one who’s earned the trust of a future Hall of Famer.
That kind of trust doesn’t come easy. But for Gainwell, it’s been the key to unlocking his best football yet.