Panthers Receiver Tetairoa McMillan Misses Practice Before Key Patriots Matchup

The Carolina Panthers are coming off a statement win in Week 3 - a 30-0 shutout over the Atlanta Falcons that turned a lot of heads. It was the kind of all-phases performance this team needed, and the passing game, in particular, showed real signs of life. But as they gear up for a tough matchup against the New England Patriots, there’s some concern around one of Bryce Young’s emerging weapons: rookie wideout Tetairoa McMillan.

McMillan missed practice due to a calf injury, per ESPN's Adam Schefter. And while it’s still early in the week, any missed reps for a young receiver - especially one building clear chemistry with a developing quarterback - raises eyebrows.

Through three games, McMillan’s caught 14 balls for 216 yards. That’s not just decent rookie production; that’s a guy who’s quickly establishing himself as a go-to option in Carolina’s passing attack.

Sure, the box score from the Falcons game doesn’t scream breakout day - three catches on eight targets for 48 yards - but the target share tells a deeper story. Bryce Young is looking McMillan’s way often, and that’s no accident. He’s smooth off the line, has shown the ability to create separation downfield, and plays with a level of polish you don’t typically find in first-year receivers.

Inside the building, that talent hasn’t gone unnoticed. Before McMillan even suited up for his first NFL snap, there were voices internally hyping what he brings to the table.

Smooth. Explosive.

Eye-catching. Those aren’t just buzzwords; that’s what he’s been in practice, and he’s translating that into Sundays.

Now, the Panthers hope this calf issue is just a minor setback. With New England on deck - a defense that knows how to mix coverages and test young quarterbacks - Carolina needs all available hands.

If McMillan can’t go, expect Xavier Legette and Hunter Renfrow to see expanded roles. Legette offers size and physicality on the outside, while Renfrow is a savvy route-runner who can keep the chains moving in the slot.

One thing that’s helped take some pressure off Carolina’s young passing game? The ground attack.

Chuba Hubbard has quietly been a stabilizing force, grinding out tough yards and helping maintain balance on offense. While the passing game finds its rhythm, that run game remains the unit’s most dependable piece.

Still, make no mistake - McMillan is a key part of Carolina's offensive picture moving forward. The next milestone?

His first NFL touchdown. And if his early production is any indication, that trip to the end zone shouldn’t be far off - assuming he’s healthy enough to be on the field this Sunday.