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Panthers legend sends clear message to Carolina’s draft pick

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Steven Corder | Last updated May 4, 2025 9:26 AM ET

When Cam Newton speaks, Panthers fans listen—and his message for Carolina’s newest offensive weapon was loud and clear.

On his latest episode of 4th & 1 with Cam Newton, the former NFL MVP didn’t hold back when discussing Tetairoa “T-Mac” McMillan, the Panthers’ eighth overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Newton, who remains the franchise’s all-time passing leader, praised the front office for finally addressing Bryce Young’s lack of weapons—but his compliment came with a challenge.

Newton Praises the Pick, But Demands Commitment

“Now you’ve attacked a need at the receiver position,” Newton said. “Now my question with that specific pick is: Are you gonna take your job serious?”

The 6-foot-5 McMillan, who totaled 1,319 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns for Arizona last season, has the physical tools to become a game-changer in Carolina. Newton even called his catch radius “probably bigger than any other receiver in this draft.” But his tone shifted when referencing concerns about McMillan’s film study habits, stemming from a viral quote he made as a high school freshman.

Cam’s message was direct: talent is not enough.

A Lesson from the Past—and a Warning for the Future

Newton’s critique feels personal—and perhaps pointed. During his own tenure in Carolina, Newton was paired with towering wideouts who never lived up to their billing. The implication? T-Mac shouldn’t follow that path.

“There’s been reports that says that you don’t watch film,” Newton said. “That’s not gonna be the case now… Your career’s dependent on that.”

McMillan has already begun to push back on the narrative. “That was just young and dumb freshman me,” he told reporters. “I’ve definitely matured since then.” But if Newton’s words echo through Bank of America Stadium, they’re a reminder: greatness requires more than highlight reels.

T-Mac has the frame, the stats, and the spotlight. Now, Panthers Nation will be watching to see if he can live up to Cam’s challenge—and become the dominant WR1 Bryce Young desperately needs.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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