Tetairoa McMillan, a rookie receiver for the Carolina Panthers, has drawn attention not only for his skills as a wideout but also for his ability to play quarterback if needed. McMillan referenced his past experience at quarterback and pointed to specific game highlights from his college career at Arizona, including a notable play against West Virginia on October 6, 2024.
During that game, McMillan executed a jet sweep and attempted a pass under pressure. Although the intended receiver could not complete the catch, McMillan highlighted the quality of his throw. “But you saw the pass, right?” he said while reviewing the replay.
Panthers offensive coordinator Brad Idzik noted similarities between McMillan and starting quarterback Bryce Young in their ability to extend plays. “Just knowing that you give him the ball, he’s going to extend plays just like Bryce does too, so you know maybe there’s a little symmetry there if you do end up giving him the rock to throw it,” Idzik said. He acknowledged that McMillan has shown him some passing plays in hopes of being used as a quarterback occasionally.
Despite these conversations about versatility, Carolina’s focus remains on developing McMillan as their primary receiver after selecting him with the No. 8 overall pick in this year’s draft. As they prepare for Week 1 against Jacksonville—a team whose secondary played man coverage nearly 39 percent of last season—the Panthers are confident in McMillan’s progress.
“For TMac it’s just about being the best version of himself every day, and that’s what he’s really poured into,” Idzik said. “He’s a pro in his approach and his communication. That’s been one of the best parts…his communication with Bryce and myself, and Rob Moore has been nothing but professional, So that inspires belief in all of us are saying, OK, this guy’s going to accelerate really fast in his learning curve because he wants it, he’s hungry, and then the skill set takes care of itself.”
Throughout training camp and preseason practices, coaches have noted McMillan’s consistency—whether making contested catches or working on timing with teammates—and believe he is ready for regular-season action.
“We all saw that in the draft prep, we all saw it in the spring, in training camp; that’s why we brought him in the building because we believe in the person and that professional is showing up,” Idzik said. “And then the skill set we do believe is a match-up for any team we’re going against.”
McMillan said he will focus on helping Carolina win its opening game rather than individual achievements: “A win,” he declares. “That’s all that matters, just adding one to the victory column for the Carolina Panthers.” He added he would be open to playing quarterback if given an opportunity by coaches.
