PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – Aaron Rodgers said after the game Monday he told Steelers tailback Kenneth Gainwell a long time ago that it was his goal to get him paid when he becomes a free agent next year. Gainwell credits the Steelers quarterback for a lot of his success this season.
The 26-year-old has career-highs in rushing yards (451), receiving yards (221) and touchdowns (6) and is coming off 126 combined yards in the win over Miami.
“Aaron Rodgers, that’s all I can say,” Gainwell said. “Him trusting me, my hands, doing the small things and going out there and working.”
Gainwell said Rogers understands the game, and while there is an affinity between the two in their few months together as teammates, there was no prior relationship. Gainwell said he just watched him as a kid and trusts that he knows football.
But the running back signed here before Rodgers was close to signing. There is someone else he trusted.
“Arthur Smith, he’s a very smart coach,” Gainwell said. “He’s a very smart offensive coordinator, him putting guys in positions to do jobs. Understanding what guys bring to the table and me working hard throughout came really did put a big check mark in his box to see what I can really do.”
After four seasons under the wide shadow cast by Saquon Barkley, Mike Tomlin’s words, Gainwell took a risk. He bet on himself to sign with the Steelers for one season and $1.79 million. He also knew Jaylen Warren was looking for a similar opportunity as him, to finally be the number one back with Najee Harris leaving.
“Us two together, it’s a great combo,” Gainwell said. “Jaylen and I work really hard during the week to make sure we understand the game plan and what is going on. Just putting two guys in the game and going out and executing.”
It hasn’t been consistent, but the running game has had moments against the Dolphins and Bears for example where it has been impactful. While the two compete for carries, Gainwell said he prepares himself every week as the number one running back. Not in a disrespectful way to Warren, but like Jaylen, he’s been underestimated his whole career.
“I came out of Mississippi, not a lot of football players come out of Mississippi and play at a high level,” hte 5'9", 200-pound Gainwell said. “I've been overlooked all of my life.”
“At the same time, I just keep my head down and work. Don’t worry about the big moments, just go out there and handle my business. Whatever is going on outside of the business, don’t worry about it. I’m just worried about what is going on today.”
Gainwell said he believes Rodgers has fulfilled his goal, along with his hard work, he’s likely to get a big raise next year.
“But there is still more work to do.”