New Detroit Lions right tackle Blake Miller already seems like a perfect for the culture.
The Clemson Tigers lineman was a stalwart competitor for the team last season, never missing a game and starting all 54 games. He set records for snaps taken for Clemson, while improving steadily as a pass protector. His run blocking still needs work, but learning from a pro like Penei Sewell can't hurt in that department.
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney quickly shared his thoughts on his now-drafted tackle, sharing in a statement via Clemson Athletics:
"Blake Miller is one of one. I've never really had one like him. On the offensive line, I've had second-rounders, third-rounders, fourth-rounders, every round you can think, but he's my first-round offensive lineman, and, boy, is he worthy. He is big, he's strong, he's athletic, he's a leader, and he's one of the most committed guys I've ever coached. He's a finisher."
Swinney sings Miller's praises as right tackle lands with Lions at pick no. 17
Miller is a very safe pick for the Lions, but he was a necessary one for them to swing on. While he has some work to do, you don't often pass up on a tackle with his traits and upside. His size and strength are pluses, and he's already proven to be a hard-worker willing to sacrifice anything for his team.
That's the kind of mentality that head coach Dan Campbell loves to see carried into his locker room, so the pick simply feels like a picture-perfect fit.
READ MORE: Lions 2026 NFL Draft tracker: Full list of picks, roster needs, targets, and more
Adding in Swinney's love for Miller, it's obvious that the Lions prioritized a high-character player with their first overall pick. They didn't stray far from the blueprint on that front.
Miller's professional comparisons vary from expert to expert, with NFL.com's Lance Zierlein tabbing him as most similar to Baltimore Ravens lineman Roger Rosengarten, and The Ringer comparing him to Braden Smith. Both are great starters in the NFL currently, so that's great news for Lions fans to hear who may not know much about Miller overall.
There will be folks who are upset about Detroit shirking their need for a pass rusher for a tackle, but all along, it has felt like their need at right tackle has been a ton more dire than their need at the former position. Protecting their potentially electric run game in addition to Jared Goff is paramount to their success in 2026 and beyond. Miller helps them do that.
Add us as a preferred source on Google