"$80 Million? Keep It!" – NFL's No. 1 Sought-After Running Back Shocks League by Rejecting 9 Teams, Ready to Re-Sign with Steelers with Vow to Bring Pittsburgh to the Super Bowl.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – December 27, 2025

In an NFL where contract bidding wars have become increasingly ruthless, Kenneth Gainwell has delivered the biggest shock of the offseason — not with a signature, but with nine offers he flatly refused.

According to multiple league executives, the price to keep Gainwell climbed toward $80 million, a figure rarely attached to a running back in today’s NFL. Yet instead of following the market, the offensive star of the Pittsburgh Steelers made a decision that stunned the league: he wants to stay in Pittsburgh, with one clear goal — the Super Bowl.

That choice carries even more weight when placed against the backdrop of Gainwell’s explosive 2025 season. He finished the year with 1,620 total yards from scrimmage, averaged over 5.1 yards per carry, and scored seven touchdowns, including five game-defining scores in the second half or fourth quarter. Gainwell also emerged as the Steelers’ most reliable receiving back, hauling in 62 catches for 410 yards, while ranking among the Top 5 running backs in the NFL in first downs created.

But the numbers only tell part of the story. Gainwell became the engine of Pittsburgh’s offense, the trusted option on third down, in the red zone, and in late-game situations where composure mattered most. When the Steelers needed to control tempo, they leaned on him. When they needed a momentum-shifting play, his number was called.

That complete skill set sparked interest across the league. Nine NFL teams — ranging from championship contenders to franchises eager to rebuild their offense around him — aggressively pursued Gainwell. But those close to the situation insist his stance never wavered.

Pittsburgh was always the priority.

In a deeply personal statement, Gainwell explained his decision:

“My heart chose Pittsburgh a long time ago, long before the numbers ever hit the table,” Gainwell said. “I know there are big contracts and tempting promises out there, but nowhere gives me a sense of belonging like this place — where they believe in me, trust me with responsibility, and fight alongside me every Sunday. I’m not staying for comfort. I’m staying because I believe this is where we can go all the way and bring a Super Bowl back to this city.”

In an NFL that often treats running backs as interchangeable pieces, Gainwell is rewriting the narrative. He isn’t just a star — he is a foundational pillar of the Steelers’ offense and a reflection of the culture the franchise is building.

The numbers will still be negotiated. The contract will eventually be signed.

But one thing is already undeniable:
Kenneth Gainwell didn’t turn down nine teams for security — he did it because he believes Pittsburgh can take him to the ultimate destination: the Super Bowl.