The eighth overall pick for the Carolina Panthers is turning heads early, with Tetairoa McMillan showing promising flashes in the 2025 preseason. The Panthers have a history of hitting on top-8 selections, including left tackle Jordan Gross in 2003 and the franchise’s all-time rushing threat Christian McCaffrey in 2017, and McMillan is the latest high-profile talent to enter their dynamic offense.
McMillan’s preseason workload was limited, as he played on just 30 passing plays. In that limited action, he hauled in 2 receptions for 43 yards, including a memorable over-the-shoulder contested grab near the sideline that showcased his ball-tracking ability and natural hands.
While the sample size is small, the evaluation attached to his performance reflects growing optimism. A favorable preseason grade indicates confidence in his potential to translate college production to the NFL level, particularly as he continues to acclimate to the speed and complexity of pro defenses.
What this could mean for the Panthers is meaningful depth and a potential new weapon for a developing offense. McMillan’s combination of length, catch radius, and competitive hands could help diversify Carolina’s passing attack as he gains more opportunities in training camp and into the regular season.
Summary of takeaways: Tetairoa McMillan, the Panthers’ No. 8 overall pick, flashed positive signs in a limited 2025 preseason, earning a B+ grade and delivering a pair of catches for 43 yards, highlighted by an impressive over-the-shoulder grab. It’s still early, but the early indicators are encouraging for a player with the tools to grow into a key offensive contributor.
Bottom line: If McMillan continues to develop and earns more reps, he could become a valuable piece for a young Panthers offense and help sustain the franchise’s recent run of impactful No. 8 picks.
Additional note: As with all early returns, progression through training camp and consistency in route running, separation, and play speed will be the true tests. If he answers those through the summer and into the regular season, fans have reason to be hopeful about his trajectory.