Tetairoa McMillan, the standout wide receiver from the University of Arizona, has emerged as one of the top prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Standing at 6’5″ and weighing 212 pounds, McMillan possesses a rare combination of size, hands, and route-running ability that has NFL scouts salivating.
2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Tetairoa McMillan
College Career and Production
McMillan’s journey to the top of draft boards began with an impressive freshman season in 2022, where he led all first-year players nationally with 702 yards on 39 receptions and eight touchdowns. His production increased significantly in his sophomore year, as he amassed 1,402 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in 13 starts.
In his junior season, McMillan solidified his status as an elite prospect. He finished the 2024 campaign with 84 catches for 1,319 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging an impressive 15.7 yards per reception. His consistent improvement over three seasons culminated in First-Team All-American honors from the AP and AFCA, and he was named a finalist for the prestigious Biletnikoff Award.
Strengths
Route Running: McMillan’s route tree sophistication is one of his most notable attributes. He demonstrates an advanced understanding of how to create separation through technique, which bodes well for his transition to the NFL level.
Hands and Catch Radius: With his impressive height and length, McMillan offers quarterbacks a large target. His ability to make contested catches and win in jump-ball situations makes him a valuable asset, particularly in red-zone situations.
Versatility: McMillan has shown the ability to win at all three levels of the field. His route-running prowess allows him to be effective in short and intermediate routes, while his size and speed make him a constant deep threat.
Run After Catch: Despite his size, McMillan displays excellent spatial awareness, stop-start ability, and elusiveness with the ball in his hands. This makes him a threat to turn short receptions into big gains.
Production Against Top Competition: McMillan’s impressive stats weren’t compiled against weak opponents. His ability to produce consistently in the competitive Big 12 conference (following Arizona’s move from the Pac-12) demonstrates his readiness for the next level.
Areas for Improvement
Physicality: While McMillan’s size is an advantage, he may need to adjust to the increased physicality of NFL cornerbacks. Developing his strength and technique to combat press coverage will be crucial for his success at the next level.
Blocking: Some scouting reports suggest that McMillan’s blocking ability could use improvement. Given his size, refining this aspect of his game could make him an even more complete receiver.
NFL Projection
McMillan is widely projected to be a top-10 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, with some analysts even suggesting he could go in the top five. His combination of size, route-running ability, and production make him an attractive option for teams in need of a true WR1.
In the NFL, McMillan projects as a scheme-versatile receiver who can be moved around the formation to create mismatches. His contested catch ability and knack for making plays in crucial situations should make him a favorite target on third downs and in the red zone.
McMillan’s ceiling is that of a potential alpha receiver, capable of transforming an NFL offense from day one. His floor, given his technical proficiency and consistent production in college, appears to be that of a reliable possession receiver who can contribute immediately.
Conclusion
Tetairoa McMillan represents one of the most complete wide receiver prospects to enter the NFL draft in recent years. His combination of size, route-running ability, hands, and production against top competition make him a likely early first-round selection.
While he may face an adjustment period adapting to the physicality of NFL cornerbacks, McMillan’s skill set and physical tools align perfectly with what NFL teams seek in a franchise wide receiver. His ability to win at all levels of the field, coupled with his red-zone prowess, project him as a day-one impact player with the potential to become one of the league’s premier receivers.
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, expect McMillan’s name to be prominently featured in discussions about the top overall prospects. His rare blend of physical attributes and technical skills make him a tantalizing option for any team looking to upgrade their passing attack.
