Panthers star Tetairoa McMillan wins Offensive Rookie of the Year after slur controversy

San Francisco 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey says it was a ‘true honor' to receive the NFL's Salute to Service Award as he continues to fight for military veterans.

Carolina Panthers star receiver Tetairoa McMillan was named the NFL's 2025 Offensive Rookie of the Year just hours after apologizing for using a racial slur during an e-sports event Wednesday night. 

McMillan won the award over New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart, New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson, New Orleans Saints quarterback Tyler Shough and Tampa Bay Buccaneers receiver Emeka Egbuka.

McMillan, nicknamed "Tet," found himself in some controversy Wednesday night, though, as he was heard shouting the N-word twice after an interception while playing in the Streamer Bowl VII, a charity esports tournament prior to the Super Bowl.

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Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan celebrates after scoring against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the first half Dec. 21, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Jacob Kupferman)

McMillan posted an apology on his Instagram story Thursday.

"Yesterday while on live stream, I used a term I should not have," he wrote in a statement. "There’s no excuse for what I said — I sincerely apologize for speaking thoughtlessly and will do better."

The Panthers also directed ESPN toward McMillan’s statement when asked for comment.

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McMillan was up for Offensive Rookie of the Year at the NFL Honors Thursday night in San Francisco after a fantastic start to his NFL career.

Carolina Panthers wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan makes a catch for a