Just unbelievable: Aaron Rodgers heaps high praise on Kenneth Gainwell following Steelers’ momentous win against Lions

The Pittsburgh Steelers did not make many headlines when they signed Kenneth Gainwell to a one-year deal before the 2025 season. However, sixteen weeks into the season, that signing looks far more important than anyone expected.

Gainwell has quietly delivered the most electrifying football performance of his career, earning the trust of his teammates.That trust was on full display during Pittsburgh’s dramatic 29 to 24 win over the Detroit Lions. Early in the game, the Steelers' offense was not off to a great start. However, before halftime, With seconds remaining, Rodgers trusted Gainwell on a deep route that few running backs ever get asked to run.

The result was a stunning touchdown that flipped the game’s energy.

One moment against Detroit captured Gainwell’s growing value in the Steelers offense

After the win, Rodgers made it clear how much he values the reliability he has with Gainwell. He told reporters, “Kenny’s been unbelievable in the passing game. Just unbelievable. And he’s so damn smart. I was telling him, ‘I wish I had played with him for 10 years.’ Just because the kind of player that he is. You just love playing with that guy.”

Gainwell finished the game with modest rushing numbers, but his impact through the air stood out.

He led the team in receiving yards and finished with over 100 total yards from scrimmage, marking another strong all-around performance in a season full of them.What made the touchdown even more remarkable was how it came together. As Gainwell explained, “Man, Aaron (Rodgers) called a play and just told me to go out and run a go ball.” It was a quarterback recognizing a mismatch and trusting his running back to win it. Gainwell's exceptional performance changed the game, and it managed a win for the team. For Pittsburgh, this partnership is becoming essential as Gainwell gives Rodgers flexibility and productive coordination that complements him greatly. For a team chasing a strong finish, that combination might be one of its biggest strengths.Also read: “A Senior Citizen…”: Steelers fans urge Aaron Rodgers to retire and focus on life with wife Brittani