The one perfect fit opposite of CeeDee Lamb could be coming in the next draft.
Currently, CeeDee is basically the only player being game-planned for by opposing defenses due to the position’s lack of depth.
Many fans want a running back in the first round, but wide receiver is the way to go to help open up this offense. Not to mention, Rico Dowdle is becoming more of a threat with each touch.
What player in college football would be the perfect complement to CeeDee Lamb? It needs to be a crisp route runner but someone who can also get vertical down the field and make contested catches.
This type of player exists in the draft, but it may not be who many fans think.
An Arizona Wildcat Turned Dallas Cowboy
Tetairoa McMillan is a tall receiver who has spent two years at the University of Arizona. He has shown that he is a threat, and that is what the Cowboys need on the other side of the field.
This would be a fantastic draft pick for the Dallas Cowboys and a potential second receiver defenses must respect.
Tetairoa McMillan is 6’5″and 212 pounds and can add more muscle in an NFL training program.
At the University of Arizona in 2023, McMillan had 90 receptions, 1,402 yards, and 10 touchdowns. His longest reception that year was 57 yards.
In 2024, he has 84 receptions, 1,319 yards, and 8 touchdowns. His longest reception was 78 yards, and in all games this year, he has only had three games with his longest reception being less than 10 yards.
He has these types of receiving numbers while being the number-one receiver on a terrible team with an average quarterback. This shows his skill level is much more than just the offense he plays in at Arizona.
Tetairoa McMillan Draft Profile
Tetairoa McMillan has the ideal size and length for the X receiver position, consistently creating mismatches. Exhibits excellent body control and reliable hands with a wide catch radius.
He runs precise routes, creating separation on short and deep patterns. He shows good burst off the line and build-up speed to stretch defenses vertically. Demonstrates skill in finding soft spots in zone coverage and has a proven track record against top competition, performing well in critical moments.
McMillan offers flexibility to line up both outside and in the slot, enhancing the versatility of the scheme.
His draft profile prominently highlights his exceptional versatility as a significant strength. He effectively lines up in multiple positions within the offensive formation, including X, Z, and the slot.
This capability to operate from various alignments consistently creates mismatches for defenders. Few taller outside corners can transition to playing in the nickel, and most nickel corners struggle to handle McMillan’s size and frame advantage.
Remarkably, he displays fluidity and agility that defy expectations for a receiver of his size. McMillan dominates with whip routes, crossers, and in-cuts, consistently creating separation and navigating across the field with ease.
The draft profile for McMillan sounds like Tee Higgins of the Cincinnati Bengals, and if the comparison holds up, he could be a potential Pro Bowl player.
Tetairoa McMillan’s Draft Projection
Many project Tetairoa McMillan as a top-ten draft pick, but the needs of the teams in the top ten may see him fall down the draft boards.
This could be a CeeDee Lamb type of fall, which would be the perfect fit for McMillan.
Playing opposite CeeDee Lamb would create numerous mismatches for defenses. Both receivers could have the possibility of getting a 1,000-yard season in the same year.
Not only will this improve the passing game, but the running game will also see a major resurgence.
This, in turn, would create time for the defense to rest, and a rested defense comprised of the superstars on that side of the ball would be terrifying for opposing offenses.
If Tetairoa McMillan gets within striking distance of the Dallas Cowboys to draft him, they need to use whatever draft capital it takes to get him.
This type of player added to the offense would be a game-changer.
Would Jerry Jones trade up for a player in the first round with so many needs? It is up for debate, but if this player could be the one to get the team over the hump, it is a no-brainer.