Steelers' Mike Tomlin Has A Clear Affinity For Under The Radar Free Agent Signing

The Pittsburgh Steelers were able to leave MetLife Stadium with a Week 1 victory against Aaron Rodgers' former team. The quarterback seemed very comfortable throughout the entire game and looked more so like the older version of himself rather than the player we have seen in recent memory. Pittsburgh saw multiple running backs making big time plays as well, as Jaylen Warren and Kenneth Gainwell played a major role in the Steelers' victory over the New York Jets.

Warren was credited with 37 yards on 11 carries in Week 1. The promising running back recently signed a two-year extension with $12 million guaranteed as he is expected to be be a factor in the Steelers' offense for years to come. Gainwell could find himself playing a significant role in 2025 as well, as the former Philadelphia Eagle was able to make his presence known throughout the entire game.

Head Coach Mike Tomlin was able to share his thoughts on Gainwell's Week 1 performance after the game, and the legendary coach praised the running back for his efforts in the victory.

"I'm excited about the new Steelers." Tomlin stated. "Whether they are new to the league or new to us, we got a lot of new plays from a lot of new Steelers today, and they are earning their place in 'Steeler lore' with their efforts, and we talked a little about that last night."

Tomlin continued to talk about the newer players on the team, while also highlighting Gainwell's performance throughout his Steelers debut.

 "I don't care by what means you get here man. You play one play for this organization and you're a Steeler, and so a lot of guys etched their name into that legacy with their efforts and play today," Tomlin said. "Can't say enough about Kenny G, that offensive player making a tackle and knocking that ball loose on kickoff. I think Skowronek recovered. It's just an example of making plays in all three phases and being a football player first."

Gainwell could quickly become a legitimate weapon on the Steelers' offense. The former Eagle spent the first four seasons of his career in Philadelphia and signed a one-year deal with Pittsburgh in the offseason. The Steelers currently have rookie running back Kaleb Johnson listed as second on the depth chart behind Warren, but Gainwell may find himself with a larger workload if the fifth-year running back continues to shine.

Both Warren and Gainwell are young running backs who could make a major impact. Warren will be a feature in the Steelers' backfield throughout 2025, but Gainwell could quickly emerge as a top competitor for the backup spot. Johnson could find himself getting off to a slow start in his rookie season as well, as Gainwell's Week 1 performance puts him on the radar as an efficient second option.

Steelers' Offense Shined As A Whole Throughout Week 1

The Steelers offense looked elite against the Jets on Sunday. Rodgers was credited with 244 yards and four touchdowns in the victory as the veteran had one of the better starts to a season he has had in recent memory. DK Metcalf shined in his Steelers' debut as well, as the veteran receiver hauled in a team high 83 yards on four receptions.

Calvin Austin lll looked like an elite option in Week 1, as the young receiver had 70 yards and a game-changing touchdown on four receptions. Austin seems to be fully healthy after an injury-ridden offseason. The Steelers' offense looked nothing short of spectacular against the Jets' defense in Week 1 and Rodgers seems to be the healthiest version of himself that we have seen in years.

Gainwell could continue to move up the depth chart if he has another promising performance in Week 2. The running back could emerge as a true second option should Johnson struggle throughout his rookie season. The Steelers will face the Seattle Seahawks in Week 2, where Gainwell will look to continue making a strong impact.

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