Will the Packers Break Tradition to Draft Tetairoa McMillan?

A Desperate Need for Wide Receiver Help

With the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, the Green Bay Packers face a pressing issue—bolstering their wide receiver corps. While they signed veteran Mecole Hardman in free agency, he is unlikely to be a game-changing weapon for Jordan Love. The team is counting on young receivers like Romeo Doubs, Jayden Reed, and Dontayvion Wicks to develop while Christian Watson battles yet another injury.

Despite their hopes for internal growth, the Packers still need fresh talent at the position, and it appears general manager Brian Gutekunst may already have his eyes set on a top prospect.

The Packers’ Interest in Tetairoa McMillan

According to ESPN’s Jordan Reid, Gutekunst recently attended a private workout for Arizona wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan. Notably, he was the only NFL general manager in attendance among the scouts present. This level of interest suggests that the Packers are seriously considering McMillan as a draft target.

McMillan has been generating significant buzz in draft circles. NFL analyst Bucky Brooks and ESPN both rank him as the top receiver in the 2025 draft class. If the Packers truly want him, they may need to trade up from their current No. 23 pick.

Breaking a Two-Decade Draft Trend

Selecting a wide receiver in the first round would be a dramatic shift for the Packers. The franchise has not drafted a first-round wideout since taking Javon Walker in 2002. Instead, they have relied on later-round picks and player development to build their receiving corps. However, with Jordan Love emerging as a franchise quarterback, it may be time for Green Bay to invest in a premier receiving talent to accelerate his growth.

Why McMillan Is Worth the Gamble

Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 212 pounds, McMillan possesses an elite physical profile. He combines size, speed, and ball-tracking ability, making him a nightmare matchup for defenders. His 2024 college season was nothing short of spectacular—he recorded 84 receptions for 1,319 yards and eight touchdowns, averaging an impressive 15.7 yards per catch.

McMillan’s ability to stretch the field and dominate contested catches would make him an ideal complement to Green Bay’s existing young receivers. Adding him to the mix could elevate the Packers’ offense to new heights.

Will the Packers Make the Bold Move?

While history suggests the Packers are unlikely to spend a first-round pick on a wide receiver, Gutekunst’s personal attendance at McMillan’s workout hints at a potential shift in strategy. If Green Bay is serious about securing McMillan, they may need to move up in the draft—a bold but potentially franchise-altering decision.

With Jordan Love’s development in mind, the Packers must ask themselves: is now the time to break tradition and make a move for an elite pass-catching talent?