Buccaneers Free-Agent Signing Turning Heads During Minicamp

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have wrapped up mandatory minicamp, and the next time the team takes the field it will be for training camp in July. While several players made positive impressions this spring, one offseason addition continues to generate buzz.

Running back Kenneth Gainwell was among the biggest standouts during minicamp. According to Pewter Report’s Bailey Adams, the veteran quickly made his presence felt in Tampa Bay’s offense.

“Veteran running back Kenny Gainwell, a newcomer to the Bucs offense, was a major standout,” Adams wrote. “During 7-on-7 work, he caught a fade for a touchdown from Baker Mayfield, going up to make a leaping catch before falling to the ground and securing the ball … getting a lot of the reps with the starters due to Bucky Irving’s recovery from injury, Gainwell shined both as a runner and as a pass catcher. But it was his work in the passing game that stood out the most. It really looks like he’ll be a big part of the passing game under new offensive coordinator Zac Robinson.”

Gainwell joined the Buccaneers in March on a two-year, $14 million contract. With Irving still working his way back from offseason surgery, the veteran has received increased opportunities with the first-team offense.

If his minicamp performance is any indication, Gainwell could be positioned for a significant role when the 2026 season begins.