Tetairoa McMillan has now become the fourth Carolina Panthers player to win Rookie of the Year, and just the second offensive player since Cam Newton in 2011 to earn the honor. I can’t say that I’m shocked.
Tetairoa McMillan Was Inevitable: The 2025 Offensive Rookie of the Year
The Drops, the Growth, and What the Numbers Actually Say
Three months ago, this author called it in a previous article, back when fans were wondering whether McMillan was getting figured out. During the season, there were seven games in which Tetairoa failed to eclipse 50 receiving yards. Another issue that surprisingly popped up was drops. McMillan was credited with eight drops this year, tied for the sixth-most in the NFL. Drops are always magnified, but several of his came at costly moments. Through missed touchdowns and lost chunk plays that could have swung games. The advanced stats back that up, showing his drops ranked among the most damaging in the league in terms of lost Expected Points Added (EPA).
Confidence Never Wavered Inside the Building
Drops are common for rookie wide receivers, and to McMillan’s credit, they were never an issue in college. Unfortunately, the timing of his drops hurt the Panthers’ win probability in key moments. The good news is that the issue is widely viewed as correctable. If he cleans it up in 2026, McMillan has a real chance to become a more reliable, elite target and take another significant leap in production.
McMillan’s struggles never deterred the Panthers, though. Head coach Dave Canales put it best:
“He’s shown a lot of confidence and belief. He’s had some pretty bad plays and some excellent plays. When guys bounce back quickly, it speaks to their confidence.”
That confidence showed up in a big way. McMillan finished the season leading the Panthers and all NFL rookies in receiving yards. His role expanded as the year went on, and by season’s end, he was clearly the team’s No. 1 receiver.
From Learning to Leading: What Comes Next for McMillan
His play didn’t just catch the attention of Panthers fans — it caught the attention of the GOAT of receivers, Jerry Rice. During Super Bowl week, Rice discussed McMillan and used one word that stood out: foundation.
“He has a great foundation. The first year, you’re learning… now you can just go play football.”
Like Panthers fans, Rice is expecting a big sophomore season from McMillan. But for now? Young man, enjoy this award. You’ve earned it.
Congratulations to Tetairoa McMillan, the 2025 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.
