Tetairoa McMillan, the Carolina Panthers’ first-round draft pick, made a notable impression during Wednesday’s training camp in Charlotte. The rookie wide receiver, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 212 pounds, demonstrated his physical abilities with several standout plays.
During a team drill, quarterback Bryce Young targeted McMillan on a deep pass. Rookie cornerback Corey Thornton provided tight coverage, using his size to contest the play. Despite the defensive effort, McMillan adjusted mid-air and secured the catch with one hand while maintaining possession through contact.
Head coach Dave Canales commented on McMillan’s performance: “I thought it was his best day at camp. So he’s learning how to play that game and, you know, just continue to use his body.” Canales also highlighted the growth he has seen in McMillan throughout camp: “Just shows a lot of confidence and belief, you know, he’s had some pretty bad plays throughout camp, and he’s had some excellent plays, and I think, when you have a guy, he’s teaching me stuff about him that I don’t know, just looking at his character.”
The Panthers’ secondary has presented challenges for McMillan during practices. With players like Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson occasionally sidelined for rest or rehab, Thornton has stepped up alongside other corners such as Shemar Bartholomew and Akayleb Evans. According to Canales: “It’s been just physical play…there’s a really good competition in the corner room…that’s a good recipe against big receivers, and so (TMac has) got his hands full every day and it’s bringing out the best in him and he improves.”
Drafted eighth overall in April’s NFL Draft by Carolina for his combination of size and skill as a receiver, McMillan is adapting to professional football by facing experienced defenders who specialize in press coverage. Each practice provides opportunities for development as he adjusts to the demands of training camp.
Canales emphasized the importance of resilience among young players: “When guys bounce back quickly, it speaks to their confidence,” said Canales of McMillan. “They know they’re good. I’ll do it again. I’ll be good again. And that’s really powerful self-talk and something that we try to remind all of our guys is remember, good or bad play, I’ve done it before, I’ll do it again, and have that kind of thought process, and he’s showing that.”
