McMillan Packs on Muscle to Revive College Form for Panthers' Second Season
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan added 20 pounds during the offseason, aiming to return to his college playing weight. He believes the added mass makes him stronger and faster on the field. McMillan, who won Offensive Rookie of the Year after recording 70 catches for 1,014 yards and seven touchdowns, is preparing for a playoff push with the Panthers.
McMillan's offseason weight gain from 205 to roughly 220 pounds represents a deliberate return to the playing weight he carried at Arizona. The 23-year-old believes the additional mass enhances both his power and speed, a combination he felt was missing during his rookie campaign.
Selected eighth overall in the 2025 draft, McMillan made an immediate impact with 70 catches, 1,014 yards, and seven scores across all 17 games. His playoff debut produced five receptions for 81 yards in Carolina's Wild Card loss to the Rams. The Panthers now aim for back-to-back postseason berths for the first time since 2015.
McMillan's physical transformation could signal a shift in how young receivers approach their second seasons, emphasizing strength alongside route-running. His success may influence the Panthers' playoff chances, potentially energizing the Charlotte fan base and boosting local engagement. As a rising star, his performance could also shape fantasy football decisions for millions of participants, demonstrating how player