Buccaneers’ Impressive Rookie Receiver Expected to be Named Starter Alongside Evans, Godwin

The talented receiver out of Washington made quite the impression during his first NFL training camp.

Collin Haalboom | Aug 25, 2024

Aug 23, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver Jalen McMillan (15) prior to the game against the Miami Dolphins at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports / Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

In this story:

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

There’s been no shortage of hype for Jalen McMillan this offseason.

The Bucaneers drafted the talented receiver out of Washington with their fourth pick (139th overall) back in April. Since that time, McMillan has continued to impress those around the organization. His consistent performance on the field from rookie minicamp right up until the team’s final preseason game has captured the attention of teammates, coaches, and fans alike.

His positive attitude and strong work ethic have also assisted in building his reputation in Tampa.

Now, with his first NFL preseason officially behind him, it’s time for the Buccaneers to determine not only which players will make the team, but which of those have earned themselves more opportunity to play — at least to start the season.

Even if the public hasn’t yet received any answers regarding these decisions, that doesn’t mean they haven’t already been made behind closed doors. At least some of them.

According to BucsGameday’s own, JC Allen, McMillan has made enough of an impression on his coaches to earn himself a coveted starting position alongside star receivers, Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.

#Bucs rookie WR Jalen McMillan has officially won the WR3 job. Palmer will still get plenty of snaps, but it will be McMillan who starts the game with Mike Evans and Chris Godwin.
— JC Allen (@JCAllenNFL) August 24, 2024

It’s no secret that Jalen McMillan was under serious consideration for this role. But second year burner, Trey Palmer — who had plenty of moments last season — was expected by many to be named the starter.

Is this an indictment on Palmer? Absolutely not.

There’s no question that Trey Palmer will still receive plenty of opportunities to make his mark during his second season with the Bucs. If anything, this decision is more of a testament to just how impressive Jalen McMillan has been throughout his first NFL offseason.

The emergence of McMillan, in addition to what is an already impressive cast of established weapons, ensures the Tampa Bay Buccaneers will have one of the strongest receiver rooms in the entire league for quarterback Baker Mayfield to throw to in 2024.

You can follow Collin Haalboom on X.

Published Aug 25, 2024

COLLIN HAALBOOM

Prior to joining BucsGameday and Sports Illustrated, Collin's written content was provided through Bucs Banter, and NFL Draft Lounge. He is also the creator and host of the Bucs Banter Podcast. He is a graduate of the Communication Studies program at McMaster University, where he was also a varsity basketball player, and later an advanced scout. He lives with his wife and two children in Hamilton, ON. You can follow Collin on YouTube and Twitter.