Steve Smith Sr., a legendary figure for the Carolina Panthers, expressed skepticism towards the team's draft pick of wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan at No. 8 overall. On his podcast, he noted that while addressing a need on offense, the team missed a chance to bolster a defense that struggled significantly last season. Smith believed the franchise should have prioritized impactful defensive players, particularly highlighting the historically weak performance that allowed a record 534 points last year. Furthermore, he argued that McMillan adds to a roster already filled with possession receivers, suggesting alternatives that could have better complemented quarterback Bryce Young.