Clemson Tigers star right tackle Blake Miller has been drafted with the 17th overall pick.
Clemson Tigers star right tackle Blake Miller has been selected by the Detroit Lions with the 17th overall pick in the first round of the NFL Draft.
Miller was a reliable piece for Clemson over the last four years. He started in all 54 games of his career, setting a school record with 3,778 snaps.
He was named to the All-ACC Team three times, including to the First Team in 2024 and 2025.
Miller's durability and reliability were pivotal for the Tigers' offensive line. He will now look to have the same impact for the Lions.
He was a quality pass blocker for Clemson, giving up just two sacks in the 2025 season. Miller has also shown promise as a run blocker due to his quickness.
He will now be tasked with being the long-term answer at right tackle for Detroit. The Lions needed to build their offensive line after releasing Taylor Decker.
Ken Ruinard / USA Today Co Inc SC / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn ImagesThe selection of Miller likely means they will move All-Pro right tackle Penei Sewell to left tackle.
The Lions' offense has been at its best with Jared Goff when they can lean on the run game with Jahmyr Gibbs and set up play-action.
Goff was the eighth-most-sacked quarterback in the 2025 season, taken down 38 times.
The Lions invested in Miller to protect Goff and open up the run game for Gibbs as they look to get back to the postseason after missing out in 2025.
Miller is a great pickup for their offense, as he has been crucial for the Tigers over the years and could be the franchise right tackle for Detroit.
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