The Steelers' surprise MVP Kenneth Gainwell electrified their offense. Now, securing his return is crucial for Pittsburgh's championship aspirations.
The Pittsburgh Steelers have made it clear that they want Aaron Rodgers to come back for a second season as quarterback in 2026.
However, among their 22 players eligible for unrestricted free agency, the Steelers should consider re-signing others. Most notable from that group are running back Keneth Gainwell and left guard Isaac Seumalo.
Gainwell was Pittsburgh's surprise team MVP last season as voted by his teammates. He joined the Steelers without fanfare last offseason, signing a one-year, $1.79-million contract as a free agent after being a backup for four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Gainwell rushed for 537 yards and five touchdowns in 114 carries in helping Pittsburgh win the AFC North for the first time since 2020. He also had a team-leading 73 receptions for 483 yards and three TDs.
"Kenny was great to have around," Steelers general manager Omar Khan said. "He knows we want him back, and we've been in communication with his people."
Gainwell likely won’t be such a bargain this time around.
Seumalo was signed to a three-year, $24-milliion contract in free agency prior to the 2023 season and provided consistent production.
Though Seumalo is 32, he remains an effective blocker as Pro Football Focus gave him a grade of 73.7 for 2025. In the three seasons he has played for Pittsburgh, Seumalo has been rated 12th, 26th, and 16th among the league’s guards by PFF.
Khan, though, doesn’t seem quite so eager to retain Seumalo as Gainwell.
"Isaac's been great, we've had some conversations with his people," Khan said. "Obviously, we'll evaluate the free agent class and the draft class.”
The Steelers’ other unrestricted free agents are wide receiver Calvin Austin III, safety Chuck Clark, offensive tackle Jack Driscoll, defensive lineman Daniel Ekuale, tight end Connor Heyward, linebacker Cole Holcomb, safety Miles Killebrew, edge rusher Isaiahh Loudermilk, defensive lineman Dean Lowry, wide receiver Scott Miller, tight end Donald Parham, offensive tackle Andrus Peat, safety Jabrill Peppers, cornerback Jamess Pierre, cornerback Asante Samuel Jr., guard Max Scharping, wide receiver Adam Thielen, quarterback Skylar Thompson and wide receiver Marquez Valdes-Scantling.
Teams can begin talking to free agents during the legal tampering period from March 9-10. Players can start signing contracts on March 11.
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