The Tampa Bay Buccaneers made a strategic move during the third round of the NFL Draft last Friday, selecting University of Washington wide receiver Jalen McMillan. Esteemed ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr. considers this pick a significant win for quarterback Baker Mayfield, suggesting that McMillan could be the sleeper success of this year’s draft class.
In his review of the draft’s second day, Kiper expressed his astonishment that McMillan was still available late into the third round. “I was surprised Jalen McMillan lasted until the end of Round 3, but the Bucs might have gotten a steal at No. 92. Baker Mayfield will love him,” Kiper remarked. This comment underscores the high expectations placed on McMillan as he joins the Buccaneers’ lineup.
Remarkable Journey of Jalen McMillan
Despite being the third receiving option at Washington behind first-round pick Rome Odunze and Ja’lynn Polk, McMillan had an impressive 2023 season, capturing 45 passes for 559 yards and five touchdowns. His consistent performance shows promise for his upcoming NFL career. The 22-year-old’s journey from a scarcely used freshman in 2020 to a star receiver is notable.
By 2022, McMillan had broken out significantly, amassing 79 receptions for 1,098 yards and nine touchdowns. Standing at 6-foot-1 with a 4.47-second 40-yard dash at the Scouting Combine, McMillan possesses the physical attributes to compete at the professional level. Though he doesn’t carry the same high profile as teammate Odunze, NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein sees potential in McMillan, especially in a slot receiver role.
On this date in 1986, with the first pick in the NFL Draft, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers select the greatest athlete I ever saw, Bo Jackson. Bo, however, had other ideas.
— Honest☘️Larry (@HonestLarry1) April 29, 2024
Joining Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Fresno, California native is set to join a Buccaneers receiving corps already boasting talents like Mike Evans and Chris Godfrey, alongside Trey Palmer. McMillan will need to demonstrate his abilities and carve out a place for himself within this competitive group.
His development and synergy with Mayfield will be key factors to watch as the 2024 season approaches. With his promising track record and the support of seasoned analysts, Jalen McMillan is on track to prove that his late third-round pick was indeed a steal for the Buccaneers. As the new NFL season nears, all eyes will be on McMillan to see if he can translate his college success into professional triumphs.
Source: NFL Analysis
