Eastern Michigan HB Dontae McMillan signs as undrafted free agent with Baltimore Ravens
McMillan's patience gets rewarded, riding a 1,000+ yard campaign to a potential spot with an AFC North stalwart.
Dontae McMillan's stellar 2025 season has earned him an opportunity in the NFL, as the Baltimore Ravens have signed the Eastern Michigan standout to a free agent deal, per Aaron Wilson.
McMillan's breakout was long awaited in Ypsilanti. McMillan transferred to Eastern Michigan in 2023 after rushing for 1,651 yards for Weber State from 2020-2022. He earned third-team All-Big Sky honors after running for 801 yards in 2022.
A transfer to the FBS level with Eastern Michigan came soon after. McMillan waited patiently for his opportunity,, carrying the ball just 33 times in 2023 and 2024. However, McMillan was arguably the Eagles' most explosive weapon when he finally got his chance in 2025.
McMillan ran for 1,014 yards on nearly six yards per carry and averaged over 11 yards per reception on 33 catches over his final campaign. Along the way, he had five 100-yard games, including an 11-carry, 111-yard explosion against MAC champion Western Michigan in the final game of the regular season. McMillan also caught four passes for 126 yards, showing his versatility.
McMillan figures to compete with Rasheed Ali for the third running back spot behind Justice Hill and Derrick Henry. Ali has had just 17 carries for 55 yards and nine receptions in two years in Baltimore. McMillan has more than a minuscule shot to make the roster. However, it is likely he will have to try his hand at returning kicks, something Rasheed Ali was adept at last season. Ali averaged 25.4 yards per return on 30 opportunities. McMillan only returned three kicks in his entire college career.
Nonetheless, McMillan hopes to go further in his pro endeavors than recent EMU running back standouts Samson Evans and Delbert Mimms. He begins his career in one of the best destinations for a young running back, learning behind future Hall of Famer Derrick Henry.
