News of Kenneth Gainwell leaving the Pittsburgh Steelers to join the Tampa Bay Buccaneers spread quickly, but what truly caught fans’ attention was the emotional farewell he shared with his former locker room.
In a heartfelt message, Kenneth Gainwell didn’t focus much on himself. Instead, he used his words to thank the people who stood beside him through every battle on the field.

He wrote: “I don’t even know where to begin. Pittsburgh gave me more than just an opportunity. This place gave me brotherhood, belief, and memories I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.”
To many inside the team, Kenneth Gainwell was more than just a player. He was a teammate who showed up at the right moment and brought positive energy into the locker room every single day.
In his message, he reflected on the long practices, the intense games, and even the quiet moments after the final whistle when the team would sit together and process the journey they were on.
“The brothers in this locker room became family to me,” he wrote. “No matter where I go, a piece of my heart will always belong here.”
The message quickly circulated among Steelers fans, with many admitting they didn’t expect a goodbye to feel this emotional.
Now, as a new chapter with the Buccaneers begins, Kenneth Gainwell carries with him not only his gear, but also deep gratitude for the teammates and memories he leaves behind in Pittsburgh.