Tetairoa McMillan

Last year, Tetairoa McMillan had a strong rookie season as the WR20 in fantasy points per game despite a limited passing volume offense and up-and-down quarterback play from Bryce Young. Last year, in Weeks 3-18, Young surpassed 35 passing attempts only once, had only two games with more than 225 passing yards, and directed an offense that was fifth in neutral rushing rate. It's concerning for McMillan's floor and ceiling, especially with Jalen Coker being fully healthy entering the season (Coker wasn't a full-time player until Week 8 last season). I don't doubt McMillan's talent for a second. I was heavily invested in him for fantasy purposes last year, but I find making the same investment this season tougher with a limited passing volume offense restricting him and Coker representing improved target competition for McMillan in 2026. Last year, McMillan, among 109 qualifying receivers, ranked 14th in target share (23.1%), 19th in receiving yards per game (59.6), 27th in yards per route run (1.94), 15th in first-read share (28.5%), and 17th in first downs per route run (0.105, per Fantasy Points Data). McMillan could easily finish as a strong WR2 again this season, but he could also see a dip to WR3 status if Coker is able to cut into his target share and touchdowns, or if Bryce Young face plants again this season.

Tetairoa McMillan wasted no time establishing himself as Carolina's clear-cut WR1, winning Offensive Rookie of the Year after nearly topping 1,100 receiving yards on 126 targets. The rookie standout commanded elite volume immediately, finishing with a 23% target share and massive 41% air yards share despite operating in a run-heavy offense. McMillan consistently delivered as Bryce Young's go-to option and flashed massive upside whenever the Panthers leaned into the passing game. After such a polished rookie campaign, T-Mac looks poised to make the jump into the fantasy WR1 conversation entering Year 2.