Panthers’ Tetairoa McMillan Headlines Offensive Rookie of the Year Finalists
We’re down to the final stretch of awards season, and the NFL’s top offensive rookies are officially in the spotlight. Leading the pack? Panthers wideout Tetairoa McMillan, who’s been the frontrunner for Offensive Rookie of the Year honors for much of the season-and now, he’s officially a finalist.
McMillan, the Panthers’ first-round pick last April, didn’t just live up to expectations-he carved out a starring role in an offense that helped Carolina claim the NFC South crown. His rookie stat line tells the story: 70 receptions, 1,014 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns. That’s not just production-it’s game-changing impact from a first-year player.
If McMillan does walk away with the award, he’ll join elite company in franchise history. The only Panther to ever win Offensive Rookie of the Year?
Cam Newton. That’s the level of historical significance we’re talking about here.
But McMillan isn’t the only rookie who made noise this season.
Saints quarterback Tyler Shough put together a compelling case of his own. While he didn’t start the full season, his time under center was enough to turn heads-and maybe even shift the betting lines.
Shough brought a spark to the Saints’ offense and gave New Orleans fans something they haven’t had in a while: real optimism about the quarterback position. Whether or not he hears his name called at NFL Honors, his emergence is a storyline worth watching going into next year.
The rest of the finalist list includes a trio of rookies who each made their mark in different ways.
Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart showed flashes of poise and playmaking ability in a tough New York environment, while Buccaneers wide receiver Emeka Egbuka gave Tampa Bay another dynamic target in the passing game. And don’t overlook Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson, who brought both power and burst to a New England offense that needed a jolt.
It’s a strong class-diverse in position and playing style-but McMillan’s combination of volume, efficiency, and team success gives him a real edge. He wasn’t just putting up numbers; he was helping win games. That’s the kind of rookie campaign that tends to leave a lasting impression on voters.
The NFL Honors ceremony in February will reveal the winner, but no matter who takes home the trophy, this group of finalists has already laid the foundation for what could be long, impactful careers.