3 Most Likely Patriots Draft Targets After Losing Out on First Overall Pick
By Ryan Markham
2. Tetairoa McMillan, WR, Arizona
There seems to be a divide between Patriots fans and who they should select with this 4th pick. Nobody should be questioning that the offensive side of the ball needs more work than the defense though. This wideout from Arizona would provide this offense with an asset outside the numbers.
McMillan is a 6-foot-5, 212 pound reciever out of Arizona, and is known to many as the second best reciever in this years class behind Heisman trophy winner Travis Hunter. His ability to make spectacular catches and win 1-on-1 battles down the field is something the Patriots have been looking for since Rob Gronkowski. McMillan has some sneaky speed and spectacular ability after the catch as well. His 2024 season stats: 84 receptions, 1,319 yards and 8 touchdowns, averaging 15.7 yards per catch.
McMillan made headlines this past season after his 10 catch, 304-yard, 4 TD performance on August 31st against New Mexico. In that game, McMillan had touchdowns from 69, 78 and 40 yards and was showcasing his speed and athleticism all night long.
Travis Hunter is projected to get drafted within the 3 picks before New England, but anything can happen leading up to the draft and on draft day. McMillan is seen to some as the best pure wideout in the class, but Travis Hunter's versatility and cornerback ability should have him going top-3 in April.
If the Patriots were to select McMillan, he would be walking into a wideout room where Demario Douglas led with 66 catches, 621 yards and 3 TDs. Hunter Henry led all Patriots in receiving yards with 674, a number that signifies how bad the Patriots' offense was all year long. The Patriots selected Ja'lynn Polk in round 2 last year, as his rookie year didn't go to plan, he totalled a measly 12 receptions for 87 yards and 2 touchdowns. This wideout room needs to get better this offseason, whether it's through free agency or drafting McMillan at 4. Drake Maye had shown us flashes in year one and is believed to be the Patriots franchise guy, it would be in New England's best interest to surround him with more playmakers and talent going into year 2.
If not to New England, McMillan could be in play for the Raiders, who traded Devante Adams this past season and would pair nicely with the rookie sensation Brock Bowers.