The NFL offseason brought plenty of change, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers were no exception. Veteran wide receiver Mike Evans departed in free agency to join the San Francisco 49ers. As Evans nears the end of his career, he secured one final major contract before retirement. His departure creates a significant opportunity for other receivers on the roster, including Jalen McMillan.
McMillan impressed during his rookie season, hauling in eight touchdown receptions and quickly establishing himself as a reliable target. Despite the Buccaneers selecting Emeka Egbuka in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, all signs pointed toward McMillan taking another step forward. Unfortunately, a frightening neck injury cut his season short.
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The good news is that McMillan is making a full recovery. With Chris Godwin still working his way back from a midseason injury and Egbuka expected to assume the WR1 role, McMillan has a clear path to increased opportunities. He could develop into a dependable WR3 for Baker Mayfield—or even emerge as a legitimate WR2 option.
Dec 28, 2025; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan (11) runs for a gain past Miami Dolphins cornerback Rasul Douglas (26) during the fourth quarter at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
McMillan’s Opportunity Has Arrived
The Buccaneers selected McMillan in the 2024 NFL Draft because of his versatility. During his college career at Washington, he thrived in multiple receiver roles and aligned all over the formation. That versatility carried over into his rookie season, especially as he earned more high-leverage targets and turned them into touchdowns.
With Evans no longer in Tampa Bay, McMillan faces the biggest opportunity of his young career. Can he become the next standout Buccaneers receiver? Alongside Egbuka and Godwin, he forms part of a promising trio that could elevate the Tampa Bay passing attack.
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Godwin can return to his natural role in the slot while offensive coordinator Zac Robinson moves his two young receivers around the formation. That flexibility could create favorable matchups for McMillan, especially with defenses focused on stopping Godwin and Egbuka.
Dec 21, 2025; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan (11) reacts after a play during the first half against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-Imagn Images
McMillan Splash Plays Could Be Coming in Bunches
McMillan became one of Mayfield’s favorite red-zone targets as a rookie, but his game extends beyond scoring touchdowns. He is also a legitimate downfield threat. McMillan earned targets on 20 percent of his routes and averaged 11.7 air yards per target, showcasing his ability to stretch defenses vertically.
If Egbuka settles into the WR1 role in 2026, McMillan could become Mayfield’s primary deep threat. Defenses would likely devote extra attention to Egbuka after his strong rookie campaign, creating more opportunities for McMillan to make explosive plays.
Together, Egbuka and McMillan could form the foundation of Tampa Bay’s offense for years to come.
Now, the Buccaneers just need to work out a contract extension with Mayfield.