The Detroit Lions have selected offensive tackle Blake Miller with their first-round, No. 17 overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes looked excited as they picked Miller as their first selection, and for good reason. He’s the “ultimate iron man at right tackle,” according to his official NFL profile, with 54 career starts.
“Miller has unusual lateral quickness and fluidity in space despite playing too upright. His hands lack accuracy and command in both phases,” his profile adds, “but he can recover and make blocks with a finisher’s mindset.”
So, let’s dive in and get to know the newest member of the Detroit Lions. Also, make sure to check out Heavy Sports’ live blog on the draft.
Get to Know Blake Miller, the Newest Player on the Detroit Lions’ Squad
Miller is strong, and the only negatives on his NFL profile state that he “has his edges attacked because of his hand issues. He will encounter difficulties at the next level without better pad level, core strength and cleaner technique.”
The good news is that “if he tightens up in those areas, Miller can become a solid NFL right tackle.” That’s exactly what Detroit needs. This was a purpose-made selection for the Lions.
“Clemson RT Blake Miller going to Detroit is a pretty decent tell that the Lions are going forward with Penei Sewell as the left tackle,” Albert Breer stated on X after hearing the news.
“Clemson’s all-time leader in offensive snaps and started 54 consecutive games, not mad at all,” one follower said on social media on the Lions’ official post.
This pick was predictable, but sometimes, it’s good to play it safe. The Detroit Lions’ biggest need going into the draft was offensive tackle after the release of Taylor Decker during the offseason.
But, not everyone is happy with this choice. Followers on the Lions’ Instagram have had mixed reactions, with a handful of them stating the team should have picked Georgia offensive tackle Monroe Freeling.
“Um, did Freeling say mean comments or something,” one asked. “He’s solid, but y’all shoulda got Freeling,” another added.
But, others were happy with the selection. “I yelled so loud with this pick. This was the pick I wanted the Lions to get in this draft. I’m so happy to see it,” one follower said. “Amazing pick Brad Holmes. This is one of the best linemen in the draft.”
Scouting Reports on Detroit Lions’ Blake Miller
Justin Rogers at the Detroit Football Network has collected comments from scouting reports on Miller, and they’re glowing.
“Miller has a good mix of on-field talent and intangibles,” Dane Brugler of The Athletic stated. “In pass protection, he is quick off the ball, with the range to mirror rushers up the arc and a surprisingly sturdy anchor to answer different types of rushers. Miller also shows his foot quickness and physical demeanor to move bodies in the run game.”
“Miller is a powerful mauler with the strengths to move defenders off the ball,” Todd McShay of The Ringer stated. “He blocks through the echo of the whistle and has a finisher’s mentality.”
So, Miller has the tools. Now, it’s about getting with the Detroit Lions coaching staff to build his skillset and take things to the next level.
Lions Select Blake Miller in NFL Draft at No. 17 — Meet the Player