New Lions Tackle Blake Miller Gets Glowing Reviews From Clemson Coaches
The Lions grabbed Clemson tackle Blake Miller with the 17th pick on night one of the 2026 NFL Draft, and honestly, it makes perfect sense. After years of watching this franchise struggle to protect quarterbacks and open running lanes, seeing them invest early in offensive line talent feels refreshingly competent.
The pick generated plenty of buzz, but what really catches your attention are the comments coming out of Clemson about what Detroit just landed.
“I’ve never had anyone like him,” one Clemson coach said about Miller, which is exactly the kind of endorsement that makes you sit up and pay attention. When college coaches start talking like that about a player, especially an offensive lineman, you know something special might be brewing.
Miller’s selection fills a clear need for the Lions, who have been building something sustainable in Allen Park. Adding a highly-regarded tackle prospect to anchor the line fits perfectly with the methodical approach this front office has taken to roster construction.
The early reviews from his college coaching staff paint the picture of a player with unique traits and work ethic. That kind of praise doesn’t come lightly in college football, where coaches see talented players cycle through every few years.
For a franchise that has historically struggled to identify and develop offensive line talent, landing a tackle who generates this level of enthusiasm from his former coaches feels like progress. The Lions have been building their foundation the right way, and adding Miller to the mix continues that trend.
Time will tell if Miller can translate his college success to Ford Field, but the early signs point toward Detroit landing exactly what they were looking for in the first round.
Think Miller becomes the cornerstone tackle this franchise has been searching for, or are we setting ourselves up for another draft disappointment? Drop your take below.
