The Carolina Panthers are sitting in a fascinating spot ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, and general manager Dan Morgan knows it.
With the No. 8 overall pick and the quarterback-needy New Orleans Saints sitting right behind them at No. 9, the Panthers are suddenly in the driver’s seat following news of Derek Carr’s shoulder injury. Morgan didn’t confirm any trade talks, but his message was clear: “We’ll be waiting if somebody wants to come up.”
That’s a clear signal to QB-hungry teams that the Panthers are open to moving back if the price is right.
But the real decision facing Carolina is whether to stay put and add a much-needed playmaker for Bryce Young. One name that continues to come up is Tetairoa McMillan, the standout wide receiver from Arizona.
McMillan is coming off back-to-back 1,300-yard seasons with 18 total touchdowns. At 6-foot-5 and 212 pounds, he brings the kind of size and skill set that could immediately elevate Carolina’s passing game. He’s great at winning 50-50 balls, can stretch the field, and would offer Young a reliable target who can make plays even when covered.
Carolina’s receiver room, led by veteran Adam Thielen, lacks explosiveness and youth. McMillan would be a long-term answer and a huge upgrade at the position.
Analysts like PFF’s Trevor Sikkema believe the Panthers should take advantage of the flexibility they gained in free agency to focus on offense in the draft. He noted that adding McMillan would not only help Young directly, but also give new head coach Dave Canales more ways to structure the offense.
Young made progress at the end of his rookie season, and the team scored 30 or more points in two of their final three games. But they still need better weapons, and McMillan could be that difference-maker.
Dan Morgan might be listening to offers, but staying at No. 8 and drafting Tetairoa McMillan might be the smartest move of all. If the Panthers want to give Bryce Young a real shot at success, adding a true WR1 should be the priority.
