Panthers great Steve Smith does not see top WR prospect as best in 2025 NFL draft

Heading towards the 2025 NFL draft, there seems to be a big disconnect between the Carolina Panthers and their fans, as well as practically every analyst out there that recognizes wide receiver is one of, if not the team's biggest roster needs right now.

However, it seems the Panthers are inclined to disagree and like their current WR room better than anyone on the outside. The recent re-signing of David Moore is one sign - as is a viral nugget from Joe Person at the Athletic that suggests the team doesn't see receiver as a major personnel priority right now.

If they do decide to pull the trigger and draft a wide receiver early they should have their pick of the entire 2025 draft class. The consensus number one wideout is Tetairoa McMillan from Arizona, who turned heads with a strong 40-yard dash time last week. However, not everyone agrees McMillan should be considered WR1 - including Panthers legend Steve Smith. Here's what he had to say about Tet's game.

Steve Smith on Tet McMillan

Wild: Steve Smith Sr. does NOT think Arizona WR Tetairoa McMillan is the WR1 in the draft:

“Yeah, he’s a number one ranked wide receiver, but he’s not the number one wide receiver... I think he’s a jump ball guy, but I don’t see his route tree being very elaborate.”

😳😳😳… pic.twitter.com/28q2zM7fdg
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) March 19, 2025