Panthers Face Tough Decisions as Legette Struggles, McMillan Thrives

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — The Carolina Panthers‘ receiving game is in turmoil as they prepare to face the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. While rookie wideout Tetairoa McMillan has emerged as a top performer, teammate Xavier Legette has struggled significantly, raising questions about the team’s decisions during the draft.

Carolina’s general manager, Dan Morgan, chose McMillan with the eighth pick in the first round last year, a controversial decision among fans who believed the team should have drafted a defensive player, like linebacker Jalon Walker, who went to Atlanta at No. 15. Walker recently recorded his first career sack against Minnesota.

Despite Legette’s disappointing performance, the Panthers feel optimistic about McMillan, who has quickly adapted to the NFL. In his first two games, McMillan has secured 11 receptions for a total of 168 yards, placing him eighth among NFL wide receivers. He showcased his potential with a 100-yard game against the Cardinals last week, becoming the fastest rookie in Panthers history to reach that milestone.

Meanwhile, Legette’s performance has been troubling. He has only four catches for a meager eight yards over two games. His catch percentage is a lowly 26.7%, ranking him at the bottom among wide receivers. Legette, who was also absent from practice due to hamstring soreness, has faced criticism for his inability to perform after being a second-round draft pick in 2024.

Veteran wide receiver David Moore implored fans to exercise patience with Legette. “It’s just the second game of the season, still pretty early. So just waiting for him to get back into his groove,” he said.

Backup quarterback Andy Dalton echoed this sentiment, stating he believes Legette’s early struggles do not reflect his talent. “There’s been a lot of things that have factored into the ball not necessarily finding him,” Dalton remarked.

In contrast, McMillan’s ease on the field is apparent. “He doesn’t have to think about catching the ball. He just does it,” Dalton commented, emphasizing the rookie’s natural ability to excel.

The Panthers must now rely on McMillan, especially after trading veteran Adam Thielen to the Minnesota Vikings. If Legette cannot step up, opposing defenses may lock in on McMillan, as seen in last week’s game against the Cardinals.

“Somebody’s gonna be open. I have full confidence in the other 10 guys on my team to make a play,” McMillan said regarding the situation.

The Panthers currently sit at 0-2 and face deeper issues than just the performance of their receivers. Head coach Dave Canales acknowledged the broader challenges the team is facing. “It’s not all on X. This is me, too,” he explained, accepting responsibility for the team’s struggles and stressing the need for improvement.

As Sunday’s game approaches, the Panthers will need to rally around McMillan while helping Legette regain his confidence to turn their season around.