Tetairoa McMillan: A Gamble or a Game-Changer? How Brian Gutekunst’s 2025 Draft Decision Could Shape the Packers’ Future

A Bold Move or a Risky Bet?

The Green Bay Packers are no strangers to bold draft decisions, and in 2025, general manager Brian Gutekunst may have just made one of his most crucial picks yet. By selecting Tetairoa McMillan, the dynamic wide receiver out of Arizona, the Packers are betting on upside, athleticism, and the potential to transform their offense. But is this a move that will pay off, or is it a gamble that could set the team back?

The Talent That Caught Everyone’s Attention

McMillan has been one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects in recent years. Standing at 6’5” with a massive catch radius and elite ball skills, he possesses the physical tools that make scouts and coaches alike dream of his potential. His ability to high-point the football, combined with smooth route running and deceptive speed, makes him a nightmare matchup for defenders.

During his college career at Arizona, McMillan consistently proved he could make plays against top-tier defenses. His ability to track the ball downfield and make contested catches made him a go-to target in critical moments. However, while his physical gifts are undeniable, questions remain about whether he can consistently translate his skills to the next level.

The Potential Impact on Green Bay’s Offense

The Packers have been searching for a true No. 1 receiver since the departure of Davante Adams. While players like Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Jayden Reed have shown promise, none have firmly established themselves as an elite, go-to target. McMillan has the potential to change that.

If he develops quickly, he could give Jordan Love the kind of big-bodied, reliable target that can dominate in the red zone and stretch the field vertically. With Green Bay’s offense built around Love’s arm strength and mobility, having a receiver like McMillan could take the passing attack to an entirely new level.

However, developing rookie wide receivers is never an exact science. Some take time to adjust to the speed and complexity of the NFL. Others struggle with consistency, especially when facing physical cornerbacks who can challenge them at the line of scrimmage. If McMillan doesn’t adapt quickly, the Packers could find themselves still searching for that true No. 1 receiver.

The Risks of This Pick

As with any high-upside draft selection, there are risks involved. McMillan, while supremely talented, has yet to prove he can dominate at the NFL level. The transition from college to the pros is never guaranteed, and there have been countless examples of elite college receivers who failed to make an impact in the NFL.

Another concern is the Packers’ history with developing young receivers. While Green Bay has found success in drafting wideouts, it has also seen players struggle with early growing pains. If McMillan doesn’t adjust quickly, the pressure will be on both him and the coaching staff to ensure he reaches his full potential.

A Franchise-Altering Decision

Brian Gutekunst has built a reputation for making bold, sometimes controversial, draft decisions. His choice to select McMillan will be scrutinized for years to come. If McMillan becomes a game-changing wide receiver, this pick could be viewed as a defining moment in Green Bay’s return to dominance. However, if he fails to develop, questions will arise about whether Gutekunst made the right move.

For now, Packers fans can only wait and see. Will Tetairoa McMillan be the next great Green Bay wide receiver, or will this pick be remembered as a missed opportunity? The 2025 season will start to reveal the answer.