Panthers Rookie Tetairoa McMillan’s 30-Yard Catch Sparks Hope in Preseason Opener

One flashy play doesn’t guarantee success, but sometimes that’s all it takes to get a fan base excited.

That was the vibe in Carolina after rookie wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan came down with a stunning 30-yard catch down the sideline early in Friday’s preseason opener.

It was exactly what the Panthers hoped for when they picked McMillan eighth overall in the draft.

“That’s what we’re counting on. That’s why he’s here,” head coach Dave Canales said. “Stretch the field, play big, and that was a sign of good things.”

The 6-foot-5 rookie shook off tight man coverage and ran just far enough past his defender before twisting his body and snagging the ball with outstretched arms. It was a catch that looked easy but was anything but.

“I just saw a perfectly placed ball,” McMillan told NFL Network. “My job is to catch the ball. If it touches my hands, I gotta come down with it.”

Even more exciting: the pass came from Panthers quarterback Bryce Young.

“I have a ton of trust and confidence in him,” Young said. “He did a great job pulling his line and giving me a spot to throw. That catch was a lot harder than it looked.”

The duo connected again on the same drive for a 13-yard gain, moving the chains. McMillan nearly scored on the next play but Young’s quick throw was a bit too hot for the rookie in the end zone.

Young made up for it by finding Jalen Coker for a touchdown right after. The QB finished 4-of-6 for 58 yards and a score, but it was that deep connection with McMillan that stood out.

Carolina’s future success could hinge on this young connection. McMillan agrees it’s heading in the right direction.

“I told him coming off the sideline, ‘Man, I like what you’re doing out there. Keep doing it. We’re gonna connect.’ I said, ‘Don’t worry — I’m gonna try and make your job easier.’”

If that chemistry keeps growing, Panthers fans have plenty to look forward to.