Tetairoa McMillan’s late-season slump continued.
Twice in the first half of a key NFL matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Dec. 21, the Carolina Panthers rookie wide receiver attempted, but failed, to secure contested passes.
His frustrations grew.
After establishing himself as the offense’s top receiving target, McMillan posted just five catches during his previous three outings. At 7-7 entering the game at Bank of America Stadium, the Panthers needed the Week 16 win to seize control of the NFC South division with two regular-season games remaining.
Trailing 10-3 late in the second quarter, McMillan snapped out of his funk by racing past Buccaneers defensive back Jamel Dean down the far sideline and hauled in a high-arching pass from quarterback Bryce Young for a momentum-stealing 22-yard touchdown.
Fueled by his six receptions, the Panthers earned the win that ended up clinching their first division title since 2015.
The big-game effort also helped “TMac” secure the Pro Football Writers of America’s rookie of the year honor and offensive rookie of the year.
Kudos, TMac … #Panthers #NFL pic.twitter.com/DOlRENQzIK
— Jeff Hawkins (@WriterHawkins) January 20, 2026
Carolina Panthers Tetairoa McMillan Stacking Rookie Hornors
McMillan became the first player in franchise history to earn the PFWA’s rookie award. He was the second to be named the top first-year offensive player, joining ex-quarterback Cam Newton (2011).
Three days after the Panthers’ season ended in an NFC Wild Card matchup against the visiting Los Angeles Rams, general manager Dan Morgan spoke of McMillan’s rookie progression this season.
“I think we definitely envisioned what we got,” Morgan said. “Just another guy that comes in, he works, attention to detail and it shows out on the field on Sundays.”
After Adam Thielen was traded at the end of training camp, the Panthers entered the season without a bona-fide veteran WR1. McMillan proved he can handle the responsibilities. The 2025 No. 8 overall draft pick posted 70 catches for a franchise rookie record of 1,014 yards and seven touchdowns.
McMillan started establishing himself in Week 1, collecting five catches. In Week 2, he had six receptions for 100 yards.
His first two professional touchdowns developed during a dramatic Week 6 win over the visiting Dallas Cowboys.
McMillan also established a franchise record with 27 explosive plays.
#Panthers WR Tetairoa McMillan, who was named PFWA Rookie and Offensive Rookie of the Year Tuesday, displayed veteran-like confidence during #NFL training camp and translated into the regular season … pic.twitter.com/kv1JN0FjxO
— Jeff Hawkins (@WriterHawkins) January 20, 2026
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