Steelers Star Leaves Victory Celebration in Ireland, Flies Home on Rooney’s Private Jet to See Ailing Grandfather

Dublin, Ireland – September 29, 2025 The Pittsburgh Steelers earned a dramatic 24-21 win over the Minnesota Vikings at Croke Park, improving to 3-1. But for one star, the night’s joy quickly shifted into a deeply personal and emotional struggle. 

Running back Kenneth Gainwell rushed for two touchdowns, powering Pittsburgh’s offense with a physical performance. His short-yardage scores came in the first and third quarters, providing 12 crucial points and 126 total yards on the ground. The victory celebration in Dublin was short-lived for Gainwell. After the game, he learned his grandfather had been rushed to the hospital with a heart attack just before kickoff. The family had kept the news from him. 

Gainwell admitted the revelation hit hard. “I didn’t know my grandfather was rushed to the hospital with a heart attack before the game. I scored two touchdowns and celebrated with joy, but now it feels so different,” he said. “Those scores are for him, and I just pray he survives this fight,” Gainwell added, his voice filled with emotion. His words struck a chord across the locker room and beyond, resonating with Steelers fans worldwide. 

Recognizing the gravity of the situation, team owner Art Rooney II arranged for Gainwell to board a private plane back to the United States immediately after the game to be with his family. While teammates continued celebrating the franchise’s first-ever regular season win on Irish soil, Gainwell quietly departed Croke Park. His absence from postgame festivities underscored the human side of professional football. 

For Pittsburgh, the win solidified their place atop the AFC North. For Gainwell, it became a reminder that football and family intertwine, and sometimes the biggest battles take place far beyond the field.