The crucial 2025 NFL Draft evaluation process is now in full swing. With bowl games approaching, teams across the league are focused on finalizing their scouting reports and draft lists. The Carolina Panthers are no different, facing a significant choice at No. 8 overall.
General manager Dan Morgan has positioned the Panthers well heading into the draft. Some trades before the deadline gave Carolina nine picks, and they also gained a second-round selection in 2024. This is especially helpful as they’re sending their own second-rounder to the Chicago Bears as part of the trade that brought quarterback Bryce Young to Carolina as the No. 1 pick in 2023.
Morgan is committed to building the team through the draft. His first draft class produced mixed results, with most players seeing significant playing time and expected to benefit from their experience. The Panthers also unearthed two valuable undrafted players in wide receiver Jalen Coker and safety Demani Richardson, further strengthening the roster.
The Panthers enter the offseason with stability, as both Morgan and head coach Dave Canales remain in their roles. Owner David Tepper is patient with the rebuild, especially after Young showed enough to be named the starting quarterback for 2025.
Improving the receiving corps to support Young would be beneficial. Coker and Xavier Legette are expected to improve, along with promising tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders. Veteran receiver Adam Thielen will still have a role in the final year of his contract, but more help is needed.
Carolina Panthers Target Tetairoa McMillan in Latest CBS Sports 2025 NFL Mock Draft
The Panthers may opt for a bold free-agent acquisition or explore trade options, taking advantage of the assets at their disposal. A recent mock draft presented Carolina with a great opportunity, thanks to a surprising quarterback pick earlier in the draft.
At No. 8, the Panthers are in a waiting game, hoping for a bit of luck while being ready to act. CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso projected Carolina selecting wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, following the surprising pick of Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe by the Cleveland Browns at No. 2.
According to Trapasso, “Tetairoa McMillan would give Bryce Young a serious rebounder on the perimeter, which is exactly what he needs.”
This would be a tough decision to pass on, especially with top prospects like Travis Hunter, Mason Graham, and Will Johnson off the board. Though Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter was still available, passing on him could spark debate among fans.
However, McMillan’s talent is undeniable. He is widely considered the top wide receiver in this draft class. Known for his ability to make contested catches, his skill set should translate well to the professional level. A dynamic route runner with an eye for the spectacular, McMillan finished his three-year college career at Arizona with 213 receptions, 3,423 yards, and 26 touchdowns — a highly promising resume.
There’s still plenty of time, and many factors will change before Carolina’s pick. The team is in urgent need of defensive help, especially after retaining coordinator Ejiro Evero. If Morgan addresses these needs in free agency, he could be in a good position to take McMillan if he’s still available.
McMillan offers a different skill set compared to the current Panthers roster, looking like a potential star who could develop a strong connection with Young and elevate the team moving forward.
Whether McMillan will be available at No. 8 remains to be seen.