Summary

Kenneth Gainwell was selected in the 5th Round (#150 Overall) in the 2021 Draft out of University of Memphis. Gainwell brings an intriguing blend of receiving ability, vision, and agility — qualities that make him a mismatch in the modern backfield. His versatility is a major asset. His main limitations stem from his size/power profile, durability and blocking proficiency. In the right scheme, he can be a high‑value contributor; in others, he may be viewed more as a situational weapon.

Strengths

• Receiving and route‑running ability out of the backfield: Gainwell showed advanced skills in the passing game — he ran routes, lined up outside the backfield, and was used as a mismatch.

• Vision, patience and open‑field quickness: He has good feel for holes, an ability to bounce and cut outside, and can make defenders miss in space.

• Versatility in usage: He can function as a traditional back, a receiving back, and contribute in special‑teams/return roles—giving him multi‑dimensional value.

• Balance and elusiveness: Despite his smaller size for a feature back, he uses his lower‑body strength, balance, and change‑of‑direction to extend plays and gain extra yards. Steelers Depot

Weaknesses & Areas for Improvement

• Lack of prototypical size/power for inside runs: Gainwell’s frame (around 200 lbs) limits his ability to consistently run between the tackles, break tackles, or be deployed as a traditional “power” back. Bleacher Report

• Pass‑protection and blocking concerns: His lighter frame and less experience as a heavy lead blocker raise questions about his reliability in blitz pickup or short‑yardage/goal‑line roles.

• Breakaway speed and finishing ability: While quick and elusive, he may not consistently produce the “big run” numbers that bigger, more explosive backs achieve in the NFL. Also, his ability to sustain momentum after contact is less developed. NFL Draft Buzz

Role & Outlook

Gainwell projects as a valuable complementary back in the NFL — particularly in offenses that value three‑down versatility (run, catch, return) rather than pure run‑between‑the‑tackles feature‑back workloads. His best role might look like a change‑of‑pace runner who can line up in the slot, catch passes, and create mismatches and operate in outside zone, outside zone/stretch or gap schemes where his quickness and vision can be maximized. Gainwell will continue to be asked to be part of backfield committees rather than being asked to carry 250+ touches as a single featured back and contributing on special teams as returner when needed. If he adds weight while maintaining his quickness, improves his blocking, and stays healthy, he could raise his floor toward a more frequent three‑down role. If not, he still offers strong value as a versatile “second‑back” who can impact both run and pass.