With several cap casualties expected to reach free agency, the Pittsburgh Steelers could find valuable options on the market. The team currently has nearly $42 million in available cap space, and additional moves could expand that number even further. The organization has never been hesitant to pursue other teams’ cap casualties, and that approach is unlikely to change this offseason.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, a notable cap casualty could soon hit the free‑agent market. If the Steelers lose Kenneth Gainwell in free agency, Pittsburgh may need to explore alternative options. Schefter reports that the Vikings plan to release Aaron Jones when the new league year begins.
Jones has several connections within the Steelers organization and could emerge as a potential replacement.
Running back Kenneth Gainwell is among the Steelers’ pending free agents who can begin negotiating with other teams on March 9. Pittsburgh would like to re-sign him, especially after he earned the team’s MVP award this past season. However, it’s still unclear what Gainwell’s market will look like once free agency begins.
Regardless, he is expected to test the market and evaluate his offers before revisiting Pittsburgh’s proposal.
The Pittsburgh Steelers could replace Kenneth Gainwell with Aaron Jones in free agency
Losing Gainwell would be a tough setback for the Steelers after his breakout 2025 season. He posted career‑high numbers both as a runner and a receiver, finishing the year with 1,023 total yards and eight touchdowns. As a pending free agent, he is well‑positioned to receive strong offers on the open market, which would be unwelcome news for Pittsburgh as they try to keep him in the fold.
Jones is entering the final stages of his NFL career. At 31 years old, he is considered relatively old for a running back, but he remains an effective playmaker both on the ground and as a receiving threat. His production dipped this past season due to injury, yet his prior performance shows he can still deliver at a high level when healthy. As a veteran with proven ability, he could be a valuable option.
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There are clear ties between the potential cap casualty and Pittsburgh, especially if Aaron Rodgers returns. Jones spent six seasons as Rodgers’ teammate during their time together with the Green Bay Packers. Head coach Mike McCarthy also adds another strong connection, as he was the one who drafted Jones in the fifth round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
These relationships could make Pittsburgh an appealing landing spot if he becomes available.
Many coaches from McCarthy’s past have already joined the Steelers’ staff, strengthening the existing ties to Jones. It wouldn’t be surprising if Jones takes notice and views Pittsburgh as a realistic landing spot. Rodgers could also advocate for his former teammate, as the two have a strong rapport. If Gainwell departs in free agency, Jones could serve as a dependable replacement.