CHARLOTTE, NC – The Carolina Panthers sent shockwaves through the 2025 NFL Draft, opting to bolster their receiving corps in a significant way by selecting Arizona’s electrifying wide receiver, Tetairoa McMillian, with the coveted #8 overall pick. This high selection underscores the Panthers’ commitment to providing quarterback Bryce Young with the offensive firepower needed to compete in the NFC South.
Panthers GM Dan Morgan said defense remains a big need but in the end McMillan was ‘’our guy’’ and Carolina went with its draft board . pic.twitter.com/QElYBXFDaI
— David Newton (@DNewtonespn) April 25, 2025
McMillian, widely considered the best Wide Receiver in this year’s draft, brings an exciting blend of size, speed, and exceptional route-running ability to Charlotte. Standing at 6’5″ and possessing surprising agility for his frame, he consistently created separation at the collegiate level and proved to be a reliable target in crucial situations.
During his standout career with the Arizona Wildcats, McMillian amassed impressive statistics that solidified his status as a premier receiver. Over his three seasons in Tucson, he recorded 213 receptions for 3,423 yards and 26 touchdowns. McMillan had back-to-back seasons of 1,300-plus yards, the third-most receiving yards in FBS in 2024, the most career receiving yards (3,423) and most receiving yards in a game (304) in Wildcats school history, and a first-team All-American season to cap it off, leading to being a Top 10 draft pick. McMillian consistently demonstrated his ability to make contested catches, stretch the field vertically, and be a threat in the red zone. His average of over 15 yards per reception highlights his big-play potential.
Beyond the impressive numbers, the selection of McMillian carries an added layer of intrigue due to his established relationship with Panthers franchise quarterback Bryce Young. The two were rivals during their time in High School in Southern California, with McMillian two years younger than Young. Young quarterbacked undefeated Mater Dei, while McMillian played for rival Servite High.
“He whooped us his senior year on national television by 45 points,” recalled McMillan Thursday night, sitting in Green Bay to preview his career with the Carolina Panthers as the No. 8 overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft by looking back at the night Young went 28-34 for 338 yards and four touchdowns in a 56-11 win.
“In my eyes, he was the best player in the country and to everybody else’s eyes, but man, he was just really good. He knew how to get his teammates involved. He was super patient in the pocket. He threw a pretty ball, and, you know, he has swag on that field.”
Young and McMillian have been quietly throwing together before the draft this offseason in Southern California.
Bryce was fired up for TMac, too@Verizon | #KeepPounding pic.twitter.com/Nfo1PsugPK
— Carolina Panthers (@Panthers) April 25, 2025
For Bryce Young, who is entering his second season in the NFL, the arrival of McMillian provides a much-needed dynamic playmaker. While the Panthers have other talented receivers on their roster, McMillian’s skillset offers a unique dimension that could unlock new possibilities for the offense. His ability to win one-on-one matchups and his prowess in the deep passing game should alleviate pressure on Young and open up opportunities for other pass-catchers.
The selection of Tetieroa McMillian signifies a clear intent from the Carolina Panthers to invest in their offense and build around their young quarterback. The reunion of McMillian and Young brings a compelling storyline and a sense of optimism to the fanbase. As the Panthers look to climb the ranks of the NFC, this dynamic duo from their high school days could be the key to unlocking their offensive potential and ushering in a new era in Charlotte. The league will be watching closely to see if their established connection can reignite at the highest level.
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