Clemson Tigers star right tackle Blake Miller was selected by the Detroit Lions with the 17th overall pick in the first round.
Clemson Tigers star right tackle Blake Miller is off to the NFL, as he was selected by the Detroit Lions with the 17th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Miller established himself as one of the top right tackles in the class after a great career at Clemson. He started 54 games for the Tigers and was a stable piece for their offensive line.
He now joins a Lions offense that struggled to protect Jared Goff in the 2025 season. Goff was sacked 38 times, which was the eighth most of any quarterback in the league.
Detroit's offensive line regression in 2025 led to them missing the playoffs just one season after going 15-2 and being the top seed in the NFC.
Miller will help address that problem as their new starting right tackle, and they will move three-time All-Pro Penei Sewell to left tackle.
"I got to meet with them in the predraft process and I just loved the culture of this organization, love the grit, the toughness that’s emphasized -- outside looking in -- and I just really want to uphold that standard," Miller said.
Jim Dedmon-Imagn ImagesThe Lions offense has thrived in recent years, led by their run game with Jahmyr Gibbs. Gibbs is coming off an incredible season, as he rushed for 1,223 yards and 13 touchdowns while hauling in 77 receptions for 616 yards and five touchdowns.
His rushing ability is what allows Detroit to set up the play-action attack, which is where Goff is at his best.
"Just a guy that will come off the ball, especially in the run game," general manager Brad Holmes said. "He’s not peaking back and seeing where the ball is. He knows his assignment, and he’s going to try and finish and bury that guy."
Miller's skill set should translate well from Clemson to the Lions. His durability, which he displayed throughout his college career, is also an upside for Detroit. The 22-year-old has the potential to be a key piece on their offensive line for the next five to ten years.
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