Bryce Young's Fast Start Drawing Praise From Panthers Receiver McMillan
The short version
- Bryce Young has thrown three TD passes in each of Carolina's first two 2026 games, tying Jake Delhomme's franchise record for consecutive three-TD performances.
- Carolina beat Atlanta 34-3 in Week 2.
- Tetairoa McMillan credits Young's confidence and trust in his weapons for the fast start.
- McMillan had 101 receiving yards against the Falcons and 10 catches for 176 yards this season.
- The Panthers face the Cleveland Browns in Week 3.
Tetairoa McMillan credits his quarterback's renewed confidence and trust in his targets for Carolina's strong opening to the 2026 season.
Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young has opened the 2026 NFL campaign in strong form, with three touchdown passes in each of the team's first two contests. The run matches Jake Delhomme's club record for back-to-back three-touchdown outings and came alongside a 34-3 rout of the Atlanta Falcons in Week 2.
Wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan, who posted 101 receiving yards in the Atlanta win, told NFL insider Jordan Schultz what he sees as the key to Young's surge. According to McMillan, the quarterback is playing with greater confidence than before and is relying on his pass catchers more than at any prior point.
That trust has made the Carolina attack more aggressive, with Young showing a willingness to fit throws into tighter coverage while spreading the ball among McMillan, Xavier Legette and Darren Waller.
McMillan, chosen eighth overall in 2025, started every game as a rookie and finished with 70 catches, 1,014 yards and seven scores while earning Offensive Rookie of the Year, a PFWA All-Rookie Team selection and an NFC South title for Carolina. He has added 10 receptions for 176 yards so far in 2026.
As the Panthers turn their attention to a Week 3 meeting with the Cleveland Browns, the connection between Young and McMillan remains a central part of the team's outlook.