​ALLEN PARK, MICHIGAN – JUNE 17: Blake Miller of the Detroit Lions works out at mandatory minicamp at Detroit Lions Meijer Performance Center on June 17, 2026 in Allen Park, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) GettyHere’s what NFL experts and analysts are saying about the Detroit Lions selecting Blake Miller with the No. 17 overall pick. GettyDan Campbell has infused new energy into the Detroit Lions since taking over five years ago, guiding them to two playoff appearances, yet capturing a championship remains elusive. The Lions’ deepest postseason run under Campbell was their appearance in the 2023 NFL Championship, and to become a true championship contender, they may need an X-factor who can truly shift the momentum in their favor.
ESPN analyst Seth Walder believes that the Lions’ first-round selection in the 2026 NFL draft, former Clemson Tigers offensive tackle Blake Miller, could be that pivotal “X-factor” Campbell has been seeking this season, with the potential to make a substantial impact on the offensive line. “Right tackle Blake Miller. We think of the Lions as having a sturdy offensive line, but they lacked a reliable right tackle after releasing veteran Taylor Decker and shifting Penei Sewell to the left. They addressed that need with Miller in the first round,” Walder noted. He also cautioned that historically, rookie offensive tackles—even elite first-round picks—often struggle in their initial pro season, so it will be intriguing to see whether Miller can buck the trend and elevate the Lions’ O-line, enabling Jared Goff to perform more efficiently on the field. Entering the professional ranks in the NFL as a rookie is challenging, particularly given the track record of first-season tackles, but Miller possesses the tools to become an exception.
Detroit Lions Mandatory Minicamp Blake Miller GettyBlake MillerAdvertisementAdvertisementBlake Miller is slated to start at right tackle. Unlike many college linemen who are asked to switch sides, the 22-year-old is well-prepared for his role on the right side after four years of experience at that position in college. He brings a wealth of game reps to the table, having appeared in 54 games for the Clemson Tigers over four seasons and logging 3,778 offensive snaps at right tackle. The NFL learning curve for a rookie can be steep due to injuries and other factors, but Miller’s college résumé suggests he’s built to withstand those challenges. Notably, during his four-year tenure with Clemson, he avoided injury setbacks, a testament to his durability.
Physically, Miller stands 6-foot-6 and weighs 318 pounds, with 34-inch arms—an archetypal frame for an NFL offensive tackle. He also brings explosive lateral movement, which is essential for maintaining edge alignment against formidable pass rushers and anchoring against run plays. In combination with his experience and build, Miller appears poised to contribute immediately as the Lions’ right tackle, offering the potential to stabilize the unit and unlock more productive performances from Jared Goff and the team’s offense.