Part of RB mix with Irving and Tucker
Gainwell is one of three running backs on Tampa Bay's 53-man roster, along with Bucky Irving and Sean Tucker (undisclosed), the latter of whom didn't practice Wednesday, per Greg Auman of Fox Sports.
Gainwell signed a two-year, $14 million contract with the Buccaneers in March after leading the Steelers with 73 catches in the 2025 regular season. He's likely to fill a change-of-pace role while playing primarily in passing situations, much like Rachaad White did for the past couple seasons in a Buccaneers backfield that's expected to be led by Irving as long as the latter stays healthy. Tucker could be a thorn in the side of both Gainwell and Irving from a fantasy perspective if Tucker reprises his red-zone role from 2025, which helped him punch in a team-high seven rushing touchdowns.
More Tampa Bay Buccaneers Fantasy Football News
Jalon Daniels
Likely returning to backup role
Daniels is expected to work as Tampa Bay's No. 2 QB on Sunday in Carolina, as Baker Mayfield (thumb) is questionable to play but is expected to start, Scott Smith and Brianna Dix of the Buccaneers' official site report.
Tez Johnson
Expanded workload sans Egbuka
Emeka Egbuka (concussion/foot) has been ruled out ahead of Sunday's game against the Panthers, so Johnson and the rest of the Buccaneers pass catchers will be tasked with larger roles offensively.
Ted Hurst III
Bigger role for Week 7 on tap
Hurst and the other Buccaneers' wide receivers will have elevated roles against the Panthers on Sunday due to the absence of Emeka Egbuka (concussion/foot).
Bucky Irving
Avoids injury designation
Irving (illness) doesn't have an injury designation for Sunday's game at Carolina, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
Baker Mayfield
Officially listed questionable for Week 7
Mayfield (thumb) was a full participant in Friday's practice but is listed questionable for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
Emeka Egbuka
Ruled out for Sunday's game
Egbuka (concussion) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
Emeka Egbuka
Doubtful for Week 7
Egbuka (concussion) is considered doubtful for Sunday's game against the Panthers, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
Baker Mayfield
Cleared to return Sunday
Head coach Todd Bowles said Friday that Mayfield (right thumb) is ready for Sunday's game at Carolina, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
Bucky Irving
Practices again Friday
Irving (illness) is practicing Friday, Pewter Report reports.
Emeka Egbuka
Practicing Friday
Egbuka (concussion/foot) is practicing Friday, Greg Auman of Fox Sports reports.
