Following a standout career in Tucson, former Arizona Wildcats wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan didn’t just translate his game to the NFL, he elevated it. The big bodied pass catcher is adding another award to his display case following his outstanding debut season with the Carolina Panthers. At the NFL Honors on Thursday evening, Tetairoa McMillan was named the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.
The eighth overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft built immediate rapport and chemistry with quarterback Bryce Young, ultimately leading to Carolina’s first playoff berth since 2017. The Panthers also clinched the NFC South title for the first time since 2015, when Cam Newton led the team to a Super Bowl 50 appearance.
On the season, T-Mac hauled in 70 receptions for 1,014 yards and seven touchdowns. His receiving yards and touchdowns both led the league amongst rookies. He is the only rookie to eclipse 1,000 yards this season. He also finished 14th overall in the league in receiving yards and tied for 15th in touchdown receptions.
“The most humbling thing is I know that I couldn’t have done this by myself,” McMillan said at the NFL Honors award show. The emotional McMillan went on to thank his mom, members of the Panthers organization, and acknowledge his faith and relationship with God.
McMillan won the award with 41 out of 50 first-place votes. He beat out Saints quarterback Tyler Shough, Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson, Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, and Buccaneers wide receiver Emeka Egbuka.