Steelers RB Kenneth Gainwell Back in 14, Brushes Off George Pickens Connection
Steelers running back Kenneth Gainwell told reporters on Thursday he is excited to have his old jersey number 14 back.
PITTSBURGH–When the Pittsburgh Steelers signed running back Kenneth Gainwell in free agency, his old number 14 was already taken. Of course, it was donned by now-traded away receiver George Pickens. Gainwell got that number assigned back to him–and he is pretty happy about it.
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Once Pickens was traded, it wasn't certain who would wear number 14. After all, it was D.K. Metcalf's career number, though it appears he is set on number four. Gainwell was asked what the jersey number meant to him.
'It means a lot to me. I'm excited about it, ' Gainwell said. The previous occupant of it is now in Dallas. However, to Gainwell, something like that doesn't matter.
'I know it was a previous guy number, but that don't mean nothing these days, but I'm excited to be back in 14 and continue that legacy.' He said of Pickens' old number and continuing his legacy in number 14.
Gainwell, a former fifth-round pick out of Memphis, spent his first four seasons with the Philadelphia Eagles. He was also a teammate of Steelers receiver Calvin Austin III in Memphis.
Philadelphia Eagles running back Kenneth Gainwell takes handoff from quarterback Jalen Hurts in a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Dec. 15, 2024. — Ed Thompson / Steelers Now
During his time in Philly, he served as a change-of-pace back and helped the Eagles win a Super Bowl in 2024. Gainwell has accumulated 1,906 scrimmage yards with 13 touchdowns so far in his career.
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He is also expected to contribute to special teams fielding kickreturns. Gainwell could be a strong veteran presence as someone who has played on previous Super Bowl teams.
Alan Saunders and Brendan Howe contributed reporting from Pittsburgh.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Now: Steelers RB Kenneth Gainwell Back in 14, Brushes Off George Pickens Connection
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