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Kansas Transfer Addition Recognized on Biletnikoff Award Preseason Watch List

Kansas football's WR1 was recognized on the prestigious Fred Biletnikoff Award Preseason Watch List this week.
Kansas redshirt senior wide receiver 
Nik McMillan (5) makes a catch during practice at Kivisto Field inside David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on Aug. 14, 2026.
Kansas redshirt senior wide receiver Nik McMillan (5) makes a catch during practice at Kivisto Field inside David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium on Aug. 14, 2026. | USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

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After losing Emmanuel Henderson Jr. to graduation, the Kansas football team supplemented its wide receiver corps with Buffalo transfer Nik McMillan. The speedy wideout is coming off an incredible season for the Bulls, reeling in 62 passes for 981 yards and three touchdowns in 2025.

McMillan was one of the most sought-after players in the portal and has already made a strong impression on the coaching staff. Now, he's beginning to receive national recognition as well.

On Wednesday, the former All-MAC First-Team selection was named to the Fred Biletnikoff Award Preseason Watch List, which is given annually to the country's top receiver.

While KU has never had a Biletnikoff Award winner, a Jayhawk has appeared on the preseason watch list in each of the past three years. Lawrence Arnold represented Kansas in 2024, followed by Henderson last year and now McMillan.

There may be concerns surrounding the quarterback position, but the Jayhawks have plenty of receiver talent for the signal-callers to target. McMillan is a crafty route runner who combines his strong frame and quickness to create separation from opposing defensive backs.

With Andy Kotelnicki back in Lawrence for his second stint as associate head coach, he'll likely find creative ways to get the ball in McMillan's hands. If he reaches his full potential, McMillan could be in line for another 800+ yard campaign.

KU's other wideouts expected to play significant roles are slot man Cam Pickett, Middle Tennessee State transfer Nahzae Cox, and fourth-year returnee Keaton Kubecka.

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Joshua Schulman
JOSHUA SCHULMAN

A lifelong Kansas basketball and football fan, Josh recently graduated from The College of New Jersey, majoring in Communications and minoring in Journalism. Josh has over 1,500 published articles on KU athletics across Kansas on SI and FanSided's Through the Phog, with additional work at Indiana on SI, Notre Dame on SI, and Pro Football Network. Josh looks to provide a fan's perspective in his writing for the school he has loved since he was a kid. KC Sports Network is the premier destination for Kansas City sports fans with podcasts, YouTube and social media content. Stay connected with the latest news and analysis by following KCSN on all social media platforms.

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