Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan’s latest honor proves the NFL knows Carolina has a dangerous weapon in the making
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan became the team’s third player to be named to the NFL’s Top-100 players list after his award-winning rookie season.
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan had a rookie season to remember that ended with some hardware after taking home the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year award. It’s clear he won over the respect of the media and the fans, and now we have a strong idea of the kind of respect he’s earned from his peers.
On Tuesday, McMillan made his NFL Top-100 debut, coming in at No. 87. He’s the first Panthers wide receiver to crack the NFL’s Top-100 since Steve Smith made the list at No. 84 in 2013.
McMillan joins fellow teammates QB Bryce Young (No. 98) and DL Derrick Brown (No. 90) on the list. It’s the first time since 2019 that the Panthers had at least three players make the list with a potential fourth on the way if cornerback Jaycee Horn makes the cut.
Tetairoa McMillan is a star in the making and one of the best recent decisions the Panthers have made
When the Panthers drafted McMillan eighth overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, there were a few skeptics. McMillan easily had Top-10 talent entering the draft but the Panthers just burned a first-round pick on the wide receiver the year before in Xavier Legette. It didn’t take long for that decision to prove to be the right move.
McMillan had four games with 10+ targets and turned into a reliable target for his quarterback. He finished his rookie campaign with 70 receptions, 1,014 yards, and seven touchdowns. Not overly insane numbers, but a really strong foundation to start is career.
The stats and awards can speak for itself that the Panthers have a dangerous player in the making. But, the words of his peers are really telling.
“To come in as a rookie and play that big of a role for a team that’s trying to turn things around, is pretty impressive,” Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive tackle Tristan Wirfs said.
The Bryce Young – Tetairoa McMillan connection will get even better
As good as the connection between Young and McMillan was last season, it’s bound to get even better going into the second season working together. Young already has immense trust in this guy and he’s capable of making some big-time plays.
“It makes you job so much easier when you know if it’s one-on-one I don’t have to think,” Young explained. “I don’t have to go through these reads and progressions. I like my guy. Knowing you have a guy that’s going to win like that, it’s huge. Having T-Mac, it’s special.”
McMillan is truly just getting started. With the way this offense uses him and makes him a top priority, he’s bound to have another 1,000+ yard season in Year 2 and reach higher goals for himself. Next on his sights? A Top-10 honor or even winning league MVP.