TMac is involved early and often
OTAs can be an interesting time for rookies. Many want to jump in feet first, willing to sink or swim if it means getting extra reps. But coaches will temper expectations by rotating reps and reminding them they have been in the building less than a month. But in the case of receiver Tetairoa McMillan, the rookie seems to be on an accelerated track.
The No. 8 overall pick is involved early and often in practice. Albeit, there have only been three of those full-speed practices till now, but in each one, we've seen McMillan folded in to the passing game more and more. Quarterback Bryce Young spreads the ball around, with McMillan becoming both a downfield target and a quick out. The Arizona product positions himself around the field, letting his frame take over regardless the defender.
Possibly the biggest thing to jump out about McMillan in person is his smooth ability to catch with his hands, not his body. It was part of his scouting report, but up close, you can really appreciate how he makes tough catches look easy. It's because he's not bobbling the ball, adding any extra layers of difficulty.
There was one catch in particular that stands out, when Young looked off a defender and sent a rainbow down the left sideline. It was a great throw by the quarterback, dropping it in over his receivers tall frame. But the rookie McMillan did his part as well, getting in front of a veteran corner in Mike Jackson, and bringing in the catch in stride.