Before the 2025 NFL Draft, analysts couldn’t stop talking about Tetairoa McMillan’s 40-yard dash time. His 4.5-second mark had plenty of scouts raising eyebrows, wondering if he’d have the wheels to hang with NFL defensive backs.
Six games into his rookie campaign, those worries look pretty silly now.
Making His Mark in Carolina
At 6-foot-4 and 213 pounds, McMillan has quickly become Bryce Young’s go-to receiver. He’s already racked up team-leading numbers in targets, receiving yards, and catches through Carolina’s first six contests—not bad for a guy who supposedly lacked NFL speed.
Why the Speed Concerns Missed the Point
Here’s the thing about that 40-yard dash—it only tells part of the story. Sure, McMillan won’t outrun many cornerbacks in a straight line, but his game intelligence and natural instincts more than make up for any step he might lose off the line.
The Complete Package
What makes McMillan dangerous isn’t just one attribute. He brings together excellent size, reliable hands, and sharp route-running in a way that creates problems for opposing defenses. Whether he’s finding soft spots in coverage, hauling in contested catches, or picking up extra yards after contact, the rookie has all the tools that matter.
With each passing week, McMillan keeps building his case as a legitimate NFL weapon. Those pre-draft speed questions? They’re looking more irrelevant by the game.
