Xavier Legette’s Week 1 showing is a concern for Panthers fantasy upside after a 3-for-7 line for 10 yards, continuing a 17-game run without a receiving-grade above 67.0. Carolina used Tetairoa McMillan heavily, and Bryce Young showed clear chemistry with him as the likelyWR1 target as Legette battles to unlock his ceiling. With Thielen out and Coker sidelined by IR, the Panthers’ rookie path remains a focal point, and the 2026 WR board is already buzzing with Makai Lemon and Carnell Tate in the mix. The broader takeaway: McMillan’s opportunity could be real early this season, while Legette must prove he can convert contested-catch chances into consistent production.

In a broader sense, the Panthers’ 2025 draft approach — prioritizing premium receivers even with veteran help — suggests an ongoing commitment to reshaping the WR room. Fantasy managers should monitor the evolving pecking order: McMillan as a strong immediate value, Legette as a longer shot, and the 2026 targets (Lemon, Tate) as volatile but potentially league-winning upside if Legette stalls.