Jalen McMillan has quickly become one of the most talked-about young wide receivers in the NFL. From a standout college career at the University of Washington to his rise with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, McMillan’s journey is full of exciting production, challenges, and fantasy football implications.
College Career & Stats
McMillan played college football at the University of Washington Huskies from 2020 to 2023, steadily growing into one of the team’s most explosive playmakers. His college body of work showcases growth in both production and consistency.
Washington Huskies Receiving Statistics
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2020 (Freshman): 3 games, 1 reception for 16 yards.
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2021 (Sophomore): 39 catches, 470 yards, 3 TDs — led the team in receiving yards.
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2022 (Junior): Breakout season with 79 receptions, 1,098 yards, and 9 TDs, ranking among the Pac-12’s top receivers.
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2023 (Senior): 45 catches for 559 yards and 5 touchdowns.
Career Totals:
38 games, 164 receptions, 2,143 receiving yards, and 17 touchdowns, with an average of 13.1 yards per catch over his Huskies career.
These numbers reflect a receiver who improved yearly, became a reliable target, and showed the ability to stretch the field vertically and in scoring opportunities.
Family & Brother Info
While McMillan’s professional records focus on his on-field accomplishments, some personal background is also available. McMillan was born on December 7, 2001, in Fresno, California, and raised by his mother, Belinda McMillan-Haener. He grew up with two siblings — a brother named Carter and a sister named Lauren.
Note: There’s no confirmed public information linking him with a prominent brother in sports or professional athletics besides his known siblings. Additionally, he is not related to fellow wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan despite the shared surname.
NFL & Fantasy Football Outlook
After an impressive college career, McMillan was selected in the third round (No. 92 overall) of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Rookie Impact (2024)
In his first NFL season, McMillan made a meaningful impact:
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37 receptions
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461 receiving yards
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8 touchdowns
Notably, he caught seven touchdowns in the final five games after a teammate’s injury opened up opportunities.
His ability to find the end zone made him a late-season fantasy favorite, especially in formats that reward touchdowns heavily.
Fantasy Value Considerations
Fantasy managers have mixed opinions on McMillan’s long-term value:
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Rookie surge: His late-season performance drew high fantasy points due to red zone usage.
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Potential upside: As a young WR in an NFL offense capable of spreading the ball, McMillan’s athleticism and efficiency offer sleeper value in deeper leagues, especially dynasty formats.
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Competition: With other receiving talents in Tampa Bay and injuries impacting targets, his role can fluctuate, which might affect weekly fantasy outlook. (Analysis pulled from community discussions and fantasy breakdowns.)
Injury Update & 2025 Status
In 2025, McMillan faced a major setback. During a preseason game, he suffered a severe neck injury and was placed on Injured Reserve, causing him to miss significant time at the start of the season.
However, as of December 10, 2025, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers activated McMillan off injured reserve, listing him as questionable for upcoming games and opening the door for his return to action this season.
This return is a critical development for both team depth and fantasy football considerations — especially if he can regain form and field chemistry after a long injury layoff.
Final Take
Jalen McMillan’s story is one of steady progression — from a rising college receiver to an impactful NFL rookie with real red-zone value. His college production, family background, fantasy intrigue, and recent injury development make him a compelling player to watch as the 2025 season winds down and heading into 2026.
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