With the 2025 NFL Draft fast approaching, the Dallas Cowboys find themselves in a familiar position, searching for a game-changing wide receiver to take pressure off their star No. 88, CeeDee Lamb. Holding the No. 12 pick, the Cowboys are in prime position to select one of the top receivers in the draft. Among the promising prospects, Arizona standout Tetairoa McMillan has emerged as a potential target, drawing comparisons to former Cowboys great Dez Bryant.
McMillan’s combination of size, skill, and production has made him one of the most intriguing receivers in this year’s class. Measuring in at 6’4″ and 220 pounds, he possesses the physical attributes that once made Bryant such a dominant force in Dallas. Like Bryant, McMillan excels at using his size and instincts to highpoint the football, turning contested passes into highlight-reel catches. His ability to win jump-ball situations has earned him the label of “pure pass catcher” from scouts across the league.
During his time at Arizona, McMillan showcased his talent and consistency, racking up 2,721 receiving yards and 18 touchdowns over his last two seasons. These All-American numbers solidified his status as one of the top receivers in college football. Unlike Bryant, whose draft stock was affected by off-the-field concerns coming out of college, McMillan enters the NFL with a clean slate, further enhancing his appeal to teams in need of a reliable playmaker.
Tetairoa McMillan’s size and catch radius makes him a serious threat on the outside. 💪 @MoveTheSticks
Where will this WR land on the big night?
📺: 2025 #NFLDraft – April 24-26 on NFLN/ESPN/ABC
📱: Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/hyWx83E0Vk— NFL (@NFL) April 10, 2025
Not everything is the same
Despite their similarities, McMillan brings a unique edge with his 4.4 speed, an attribute that could prove game-breaking if utilized effectively in the right offensive system. If the Cowboys decide to invest in McMillan, his versatility and athleticism could provide the perfect complement to Lamb, giving Dallas a dynamic one-two punch at wide receiver.
However, questions remain about whether McMillan’s collegiate success will translate to the professional level. While his size and skill set make him an attractive prospect, the transition to the NFL is never guaranteed. Still, the Cowboys have shown a willingness to take calculated risks on receivers with high upside, as evidenced by their decision to draft Bryant back in 2010. That gamble paid off, with Bryant becoming a cornerstone of their offense for years.
This offseason, the Cowboys have made their search for an explosive No. 2 receiver evident. With little movement in free agency, it seems likely that they will address this need in the draft. As the Cowboys weigh their options, Tetairoa McMillan stands out as a potential star who could follow in Bryant’s footsteps and become the next great receiver to wear the iconic No. 88 jersey.
With comparisons to Bryant and a wealth of potential, McMillan could be exactly what the Cowboys need to take their offense to the next level. All eyes will be on Dallas come draft day as they consider the possibility of bringing “Tet” to The Star.
The #Patriots hosted Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan on a 30 visit, per @AaronWilson_NFL.
McMillan is considered by many to be the best wide receiver in the draft and it was previously reported that members of New England’s staff think highly of him.pic.twitter.com/x700blY8VB
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) April 12, 2025
