TUCSON, Ariz. (KVOA) – The Carolina Panthers fell to 0-2 with a 27-22 loss to the Cardinals in Glendale.

It was a homecoming for Panthers rookie receiver Tetairoa McMillan. TMac had six catches for 100 yards, his first 100-yard receiving game in his NFL career. That included a 40-yard catch in the first quarter.

“God works in mysterious ways,” McMillan said. “Somehow my second-ever game in the league is pretty much the place I spent the last three years. It’s a homecoming for me.”

How fitting that former Wildcat turned Panthers rookie Tetairoa McMillan had his first 100-yard receiving game while playing in Arizona!”God works in mysterious ways. Somehow my second ever game in the league is pretty much the place I spent the last three years.” – TMac pic.twitter.com/ZFCOIgLZZf

— Jenna Fink (@jennamfink) September 15, 2025

TMac had several family members and friends make the trip to State Farm Stadium. That included current Arizona quarterback Noah Fifita and 2026 U of A commit Dash Fifita. 

family 🫶🏽 pic.twitter.com/xQY9JNHAPO

— spamandeggs (@mrsFeef) September 15, 2025

“It’s a close flight home from Hawaii,” McMillan said. I’m fortunate enough to have both my grandparents here. My mom, pops. It’s a blessing. I can’t put it into words of how grateful I am to still play in front of them.”

McMillan became Arizona’s all-time leader in receiving yards in just three years with the program. The Panthers selected him with the 8th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

It was also a homecoming for fellow rookie and Tucson native Lathan Ransom