And With the 8th Pick…

With the 8th overall pick, the Carolina Panthers shocked fans and analysts alike by selecting Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, a playmaker known for his spectacular one-handed grabs. The question now: are the Panthers finally on the rise with this pick?

While many expected Carolina to bolster its defense, perhaps with a high-profile edge rusher, GM Dan Morgan and new head coach Dave Canales had a different vision. Their strategy? Give quarterback Bryce Young more firepower. And with McMillan’s explosive playmaking ability, they’ve done just that.

Who is Tet McMillian?

Standing at 6-foot-4, Tetairoa McMillan brings a rare combination of size, athleticism, and versatility to the Panthers' receiving corps. Drawing early comparisons to NFL stars like Mike Evans and Drake London, McMillan adds a dynamic new weapon to Carolina’s offense, and perhaps a long-awaited answer to the dominant receivers the NFC South has long boasted.

For years, Carolina has had to contend with division stars like Evans and, before him, Julio Jones. Now, it’s the Panthers’ turn to strike fear into opposing secondaries.

McMillan’s strong frame makes him a prime target in contested catch situations, especially in the red zone. But he’s more than just a jump-ball specialist — his polished route running and ability to create separation across the field make him a threat at all levels. A multi-sport athlete with a background in basketball and volleyball, McMillan’s elite body control and knack for high pointing the ball give him a unique edge that should immediately translate to the NFL. It is to be noted that McMillian was the highest-ranking recruit in the history of Arizona.

Right now, Young has Legette, Thielen, McMillian, Coker, and Tight End Sanders as his receiving options. He's also got Hubbard and Dowdle in the backfield, and the entire offensive line is returning. While many might call this receiving corps an odd mix of characters, it has the potential to be an absolute powder keg.

Tetairoa McMillan - Arizona

So, what does this mean for tonight’s draft picks? Honestly, with that selection, things just got a little less predictable. But for fans still hoping for more defensive talent, don’t worry there are still plenty of edge rushers and defensive tackles left on the board. As of now, Carolina has eight more picks to make over the weekend, so buckle up, it’s going to be a wild ride.

Images: AP Kirby Lee-Imagn