Garnering the distinction of being widely regarded as the top receiver in an NFL draft naturally translates to significant demand from teams across the league. This year, that coveted title is largely attributed to Arizona’s standout talent, Tetairoa McMillan.
Consequently, as one might anticipate, McMillan is currently undertaking a series of pre-draft “Top 30” visits with numerous interested franchises. Among those teams is the Las Vegas Raiders, who hold the sixth overall selection in the upcoming draft and possess a clear need to bolster their receiving corps.
McMillan, a physically imposing target at 6-foot-4 and 213 pounds, is almost universally considered the premier receiver in this draft class. His projected draft position within the top ten selections underscores the high value placed on his skill set. Over his impressive three-season collegiate career at Arizona, McMillan amassed over 3,400 receiving yards and scored 26 touchdowns while maintaining an impressive average of over 16 yards per reception. His exceptional performance culminated in his being named a first-team All-American in his most recent season.
Las Vegas Raiders: Teairoa McMillan Scouting Report
Further validating his elite status, Tetairoa McMillan is ranked as the 12th overall prospect on Dane Brugler’s highly respected draft big board. Notably, Brugler identifies McMillan as the sole “X” receiver in this year’s draft class to warrant a first-round grade. Brugler wrote, “…the Hawaiian native was one of the most productive players in college football over the past two seasons — he led the FBS in combined receiving yards (2,721), first downs (112) and catches of 20 yards or more (42).”
“Showing off his volleyball and basketball background, McMillan shines at the catch point and uses his Gumby-like body-adjustment skills to frame the football with his hands, regardless of the placement or action required. With heavy helpings of slants, hitches, and go routes on tape, he is at his best when he can stretch out his stride.”
“He has the feet of a smaller athlete but will need time to expand his route tree and pacing to avoid giving away subtle hints that savvy NFL corners will notice. Overall, McMillan is only average in the speed and separation categories, but he is a long and limber athlete with exceptional tracking and ball-winning instincts. He fits the Tee Higgins mold as a unique playmaker because of his size and catch-point skills.”