The Carolina Panthers have taken a couple of pictures at vast receivers early within the draft in recent times. Terrace Marshall Jr., Jonathan Mingo, Xavier Legette, Tetairoa McMillan, and Chris Brazzell II have all been added within the first three rounds over the past 5 years.
Marshall and Mingo did not work out, and Legette has had a tough go of it up to now. Brazzell appears to be like promising as a rookie, however McMillan has been one of the best success story of that group by a large margin up to now.
Advertisement
In 2025, McMillan performed in all 17 video games and caught 70 passes for 1,014 yards and 7 touchdowns. The receiver led the Panthers in each receiving class and already proved succesful of being the WR1. McMillan’s rookie season is precisely what groups hope for once they draft a receiver within the first spherical.
It’s not simply these round the Panthers who’re excessive on McMillan, both. The workforce at CBS Sports just lately gave the second-year receiver some main props forward of Week 1.
McMillan Receives Honorable Mention in Best Receiver List
CBS Sports’ NFL specialists just lately ranked the top 10 players at every offensive place. For vast receiver, the anticipated names, like Ja’Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson, and Puka Nacua have been on the high of the checklist.
Advertisement
However, simply previous the No. 10 spot, within the “also receiving votes” part, you will discover McMillan’s identify. In truth, one voter put McMillan because the No. 7 receiver in all the league.
To even be talked about within the high 10 receivers checklist after only one season is an unimaginable achievement. McMillan positively earned the popularity, as he was named the Offensive Rookie of the Year and simply may have been a Pro Bowl choice.
It’s already truthful to say that McMillan is a WR1. Now, the following query is how good he can get. In 2026, the Arizona product ought to clearly be the highest goal in Carolina as soon as once more, but when he can attain an All-Pro degree, this Carolina offense can ascend to new heights.
Advertisement
Can Anybody Step up Next to McMillan?
The fascinating factor to look at now could be whether or not or not anyone may help McMillan out. Jalen Coker has had good moments and appears like a stable complimentary piece, however McMillan is the one gamechanger on the offense.
Can Chris Brazzell II develop into the following star? Or will Xavier Legette lastly reside as much as his draft standing? The tight finish place can also be a giant query mark. If no one else steps as much as command consideration, defenses will have the ability to zero in on McMillan.
This story was initially revealed by Athlon Sports on Jul 28, 2026, the place it first appeared within the NFL part. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.