Lions Select Clemson OT Blake Miller at No. 17

The Detroit Lions selected Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller with the 17th overall pick in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday night, bolstering their offensive line with a durable, highly rated prospect amid recent roster changes.

At 6-foot-7 and 317 pounds, the 22-year-old Miller from Strongsville, Ohio, brings a proven track record of reliability to a Lions team emphasizing toughness in the trenches. A four-year starter at right tackle for the Tigers, he appeared in all 54 of his college games without missing a single one due to injury, setting a Clemson record with 3,778 offensive snaps. Miller earned first-team All-ACC honors in both 2024 and 2025, anchoring the line against elite competition while allowing few pressures in his final season. He also served as a team captain, reflecting the leadership qualities valued by Lions coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes.

The selection addresses a key need following the offseason departure of longtime left tackle Taylor Decker, who requested and received his release after a decade with the team. Pro Bowl tackle Penei Sewell is expected to shift to the left side, opening the right tackle position where...