Panthers star Tetairoa McMillan wins Offensive Rookie of the Year award after insult controversy
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Carolina Panthers star wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan was named the 2025 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year just hours after apologizing for using a racial slur during an esports event Wednesday night.
McMillan won the award over New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson, New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough and Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Emeka Egbuka.
However, McMillan, nicknamed “Tet,” became embroiled in some controversy Wednesday night, when he was heard yelling the N-word twice after an interception while playing in Streamer Bowl VII, a charity esports tournament leading up to the Super Bowl.
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Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan celebrates after scoring against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half on Dec. 21, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman)
McMillan posted an apology on his Instagram Story on Thursday.
“Yesterday, while on a live stream, I used a term I shouldn’t have used,” he wrote in a statement. “There is no excuse for what I said; I sincerely apologize for speaking without thinking and I will do better.”
The Panthers also directed ESPN to McMillan’s statement when asked for comment.
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McMillan was nominated for Offensive Rookie of the Year at the NFL Honors Thursday night in San Francisco after a fantastic start to his NFL career.
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan makes a catch for a touchdown during the second half against the Dallas Cowboys at Bank of America Stadium on Oct. 12, 2025. (Cory Knowlton/Image Images)
McMillan, selected eighth overall by the Panthers in last year’s NFL Draft, had a rookie campaign with 70 catches (122 targets) for 1,014 yards and seven touchdowns.
The Panthers needed a playmaker to take the next step in 2025, and McMillan was a big part of the team’s success that ultimately led to them winning the NFC South.
Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan celebrates a touchdown during the second quarter against the Dallas Cowboys at Bank of America Stadium on Oct. 12, 2025. (Cory Knowlton/Image Images)
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In his first playoff game, a thriller against the Los Angeles Rams, McMillan caught five passes for 81 yards, using his connection with quarterback Bryce Young to carry the ball downfield.
The Rams won the game, 34-31.
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Scott Thompson is a sports writer for News Digital.