Kenny Gainwell says Buccaneers staying calm amid 0-3 start
Tampa Bay is 0-3 and will be without quarterback Baker Mayfield for a period because of a thumb injury. Running back Kenny Gainwell told SB Nation that the Buccaneers need to stay calm and focused to dig out of the hole. Gainwell, who signed with Tampa Bay in the offseason to pair with Bucky Irving, expects the running game to take on a larger role.
Tampa Bay sits at 0-3, and Baker Mayfield will miss time because of a thumb issue. That absence likely pushes the offense toward its running backs. Kenny Gainwell, who joined the club in the offseason, is expected to share carries with Bucky Irving and said the team must remain composed and focused.
Gainwell previously played for Philadelphia and Pittsburgh. He has been around notable coaches, including Arizona State’s Kenny Dillingham. He also discussed an Oral-B and Crest promotion and a friendly wager with the writer over Tampa Bay’s Thursday game against Dallas.
The Buccaneers’ 0-3 start and Mayfield’s thumb injury may affect players, coaches, and fans, shaping expectations for the season and increasing attention on Gainwell and Irving. A larger rushing role could elevate their visibility and influence fan engagement, local game-day mood, and media coverage, though outcomes remain uncertain. Sponsorship tie-ins may also draw casual viewers.