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Jalen McMillan

Jalen McMillan Player Profile

Summary

Jalen McMillan was selected in the 3rd round (92nd overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Tampa Bay Buccaneers He played college football at Washington, where he put together strong production—including a breakout 2022 season with 79 receptions for 1,098 yards and 9 touchdowns. CFB Stats Over his Washington career (2020–2023), he caught 164 passes for 2,143 yards and 17 receiving touchdowns. Sports Reference McMillan is known for his elite speed, polished route‑running, fluidity after the catch, and strong spatial awareness. PFSN He has also shown resilience and leadership—overcoming injuries in 2023, and coming back motivated, per his own words. SI

Strengths

  • Elite Speed & Explosiveness: McMillan has excellent baseline speed, and a second gear that allows him to threaten downfield.

  • Fluid Route-Running: He’s very polished, with a diverse route tree, precise cuts, and the ability to modulate his speed to create separation. PFSN

  • Strong Run‑After‑Catch (RAC) Ability: McMillan is agile, can flow after the catch, and use his lateral freedom to create YAC. PFSN

  • Spatial Awareness / Separation Instincts: He has a good sense for soft spots in zone, and he knows how to manipulate defenders to get open. PFSN

  • Reliable Hands: Displays natural catching ability, consistently secures the ball, and demonstrates good ball-adjustment and catch control.

  • Size & Build for Role: At ~6′1″ and a lean build (~180–190 lb), he has enough size to vertical but remains light enough to be shifty. SI

  • Versatility: Can align in multiple spots—outside, in the slot, or even in motion—which gives offensive flexibility. PFSN

  • Character & Competitiveness: Known for his high motor, resiliency (returned after injury), and leadership. SI

Weaknesses

  • Thin Frame / Limited Strength: His lean build raises questions about his ability to win in very physical matchups or after contact.

  • Speed Translation: While his timed speed is excellent, some scouts argue that his game-speed (in‑game burst) isn’t always at that same elite level. PFSN

  • Plant-and-Drive Mechanics: His foot‑planting and stopping footwork after cuts can be less efficient, which may affect his initial acceleration in short routes. PFSN

  • Contested Catch / Physicality: He can be vulnerable in contested catch scenarios and may lack ideal body strength to dominate over the middle or against physical press coverage.

  • Durability / Injury Risk: McMillan dealt with injuries (notably in 2023), and his lighter frame could make him more susceptible to wear. PFSN

Fit & Outlook

McMillan is a very good fit for offensive schemes that prioritize speed, timing, and route precision. He can flourish in a system that uses a mix of vertical concepts, option routes, and timing-based throws. Because of his route-running skill and after‑catch ability, he can contribute as both a boundary threat and a slot playmaker. In three‑receiver sets, his versatility allows him to be deployed in motion, in the slot, or on the outside, giving offensive coordinators flexibility.

Looking ahead, McMillan has upside as a starting WR or high-end rotational piece. If he continues to build strength and refine his contested-catch technique, he could become a reliable No. 2 receiver with real big-play potential. His floor is solid thanks to his speed, hands, and character, and his ceiling includes being a true game-breaking vertical threat who can stretch defenses and make plays after the catch. With development, he could be a key weapon in a modern NFL passing attack.