'Things You Can't Teach': How Jalen McMillan Elevates Strong Bucs Receiving Group

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers' starters made their preseason debut in Friday's 24-14 win over the Miami Dolphins. The sample size was limited, but effective, marching down the field with ease on the game's opening drive.

Tampa Bay moved with such pace partly as a result of a stellar pitch and catch from Baker Mayfield to rookie receiver Jalen McMillan. His 28-yard grab set up a short touchdown run on the next play, ending the starters' short session.

Mayfield reacted to the stellar grab after the game.

"Teams are going to have to decide on how they want to defend us. You can't exactly just shade a safety over on the top of Mike [Evans]," Mayfield said. "We have threats."

McMillan has advanced up the depth chart rapidly during the offseason. He showcased well during camp and, evidenced Friday's matchup, the on-field connection with Mayfield was more than just a rumor.

As a rookie, there is something quite advanced about his game. He knows how to make himself available, but can contests for the ball and make difficult catches when necessary.

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Those traits can be found at the top of draft boards and in traditional first-round picks. But Tampa Bay secured a player with those assets with a third-round pick.

The Bucs depth at the wideout position has made for a crowding behind Evans and Chris Godwin. But McMillan has made a strong push to cement a starting role.

But for Mayfield and this new-look Bucs offense, there will be multiple potent options in the passing game. McMillan's rise makes that reality more apparent.