McMillan's Clandestine Maneuver Prior to Drafting at #8 by Panthers, Involving Young

The Carolina Panthers' draft strategy in 2025 centered around arming Bryce Young with a lethal weapon, and that's where Tetairoa McMillan comes in. McMillan was selected by the Panthers at No. 8, but what's interesting is the secret connection he shares with Young.

Before the big draft night, these two had already been catching passes together off-field, building an unexpected bond. With no shortage of trade offers, the Panthers held their ground to grab McMillan, revealing this hidden chemistry. NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport shared this intriguing nugget following the Thursday pick:

"The Panthers, with numerous trade options, stay put and pick: Tetairoa McMillan - T-Mac. He's been tossing around with QB Bryce Young in LA. They two are developing a rapport," Rapoport said.

Initially projected as a late-round pick, the Arizona standout had been eyed by the Green Bay Packers at No. 23. Panthers fans arein for a treat, as Young gets a head start on bonding with the newest Panthers wideout.

A Shared Link Between Tetairoa McMillan and Bryce Young

Beyond their secret throws, these two Cali natives share another fascinating connection, rooted in their Southern California roots.

McMillan, a star at Servite High School in Anaheim, climbed to four-star status and became the state's fourth-best WR prospect by 247Sports. He nabbed 23 scholarship offers and was even invited to the Polynesian Bowl.

Meanwhile, Young lit up Mater Dei High School, another powerhouse from the Golden State. Both teams play in the famed Trinity League, home to numerous college and NFL talents. Though they didn't cross paths on Friday nights, they now bring their California ties to Charlotte, ready to make their mark.

With this bond, McMillan and Young are setting the stage for a dynamic duo in the Panthers' offense under head coach Dave Canales.

Enrichment Data

This Cali connection between Tetairoa McMillan and Bryce Young is more than just geographic roots. It stems from shared memories of high school football. McMillan has a vivid recall of a high school game featuring Young in October 2019, hinting at the potential for a strong professional relationship[1][2].

Although there's no definitive history of their personal interactions outside of football, their shared background could certainly help their chemistry on the field[2][3].

The Carolina Panthers decision to select Tetairoa McMillan at the 8th pick in the 2025 draft was strategic, as McMillan is rumored to share a secret connection with the team's draft pick, Bryce Young.
Before the draft, McMillan and Young were already building an unexpected bond off-field, rehearsing passes together.
McMillan, a top player from Servite High School in Anaheim, California, and Young, a star from Mater Dei High School, share a significant connection rooted in their Southern California roots.
In the 2025 NFL Draft, McMillan, initially projected as a late-round pick, was unexpectedly selected by the Carolina Panthers, to the delight of Panthers fans who anticipate a strong bond between Young and McMillan.
With their shared Cali roots and potential chemistry on the field, McMillan and Young are poised to form a dynamic duo in the Panthers' offense under head coach Dave Canales, setting the stage for a promising American-football journey in the NFL.

[Enrichment Data] This Cali connection between Tetairoa McMillan and Bryce Young is more than just geographic roots. It stems from shared memories of high school football, hinting at the potential for a strong professional relationship, though there's no definitive history of their personal interactions outside of football.