There is a universe not too far from this one where Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan is a member of the San Francisco 49ers.
McMillan went No. 8 overall to Carolina, just three spots ahead of where the 49ers were slated to pick at No. 11.
49ers head coach Kyle Shanahan on Thursday told reporters McMillan caught his eye “big time” in the draft, and had high praise for McMillan after the rookie’s excellent first 11 NFL games.
“I think he’s a stud,” Shanahan said. “He’s going to be one of the best receivers in this league sooner than later. He’s got all the skill sets to do it and I think he’s just getting started.”
McMillan wasn’t placed in a perfect situation on a Carolina offense that ranks 28th in total points, but he’s made the most of his role as the primary target in their offense. In 11 games he’s been targeted 89 times. He turned those targets into 54 catches for 748 yards and four touchdowns.
Perhaps the scariest part for San Francisco in facing McMillan is that he’s coming off the best outing of his career. In a 30-27 overtime win against the Atlanta Falcons, McMillan hung up 130 yards and two touchdowns on eight receptions. Meanwhile the 49ers allowed 185 yards on 15 catches to Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Michael Wilson.
There’s a chance McMillan puts up big numbers again Monday against San Francisco and gives more evidence that Shanahan’s assessment and projection for the star rookie is on the right track.
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