In a remarkable testament to his exceptional debut season, Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan has been awarded the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year at the 2026 NFL Honors just hours after addressing backlash from a livestream incident that drew widespread attention.
McMillan secured the accolade with 41 first-place votes, impressing analysts with a standout season that included 70 receptions for 1,014 yards and seven touchdowns. At just 22 years old, he also becomes the first Panthers player to earn this distinction since quarterback Cam Newton in 2011.
The recognition comes in the wake of a livestream during the Streamer Bowl an exhibition event held ahead of the Super Bowl between the Seattle Seahawks and the New England Patriots where McMillan made an inappropriate comment while playing Madden alongside internet personalities YonnaJay and Tamir.
The incident, which occurred after a decisive interception, visibly shocked his co-hosts and sparked significant criticism online.
Addressing the controversy on Thursday via Instagram Story, McMillan wrote: “Yesterday while on livestream I used a term I should not have. There’s no excuse for what I said I sincerely apologize for speaking thoughtlessly and will do better.”
Born in Hawaii, McMillan is an American of Polynesian descent. Despite the controversy, his remarkable on-field performance has earned him recognition from the NFL, marking a historic milestone early in his professional career.
