Full Breakdown
Detroit Lions 2026 Draft: Offensive Line Focus
4/24/2026, 1:09:13 PM
Draft Overview and Core Selections
The Lions entered the 2026 NFL Draft with nine selections. The first-round pick, No. 17 overall, was offensive tackle Blake Miller from Clemson. Later picks include No. 50 in the second round and seven choices through rounds 4-7.
Background: Lions' Offseason Priorities
Detroit prioritized rebuilding the offensive line after attrition and adding pass-rush talent to support defensive end Aidan Hutchinson. Management signaled willingness to shift All-Pro left tackle Penei Sewell to the left side if a right-side starter emerges.
Key Figures
Coach Dan Campbell leads the draft strategy. Blake Miller, 22-year-old Clemson right tackle, is the primary offensive line addition. Penei Sewell is the current All-Pro left tackle. Aidan Hutchinson remains the focal point of the pass-rush plan.
Draft Timeline and Picks
The Lions selected Blake Miller at No. 17 (OT, Clemson), then a second-round pick at No. 50, followed by later picks at No. 118, 128 (from Houston), 157, 181 (compensatory), 205 (from Jacksonville), 213 (from Seattle via Jacksonville) and 222 (from Cleveland).
Data & Player Profile: Blake Miller
Miller measures 6-foot-7, 318 lb, posted a 9.90 RAS, and ranks sixth on the tracker’s Grit Index. He logged 54 starts at right tackle for Clemson and missed only one practice in four years, returning the next day after wrist surgery.
Official Statements & Team Strategy
Coach Campbell said the Lions are ready to move Penei Sewell to left tackle if a right-side starter appears, making Miller a potential fit. The Tennessean gave Miller a grade “B,” noting his consistency and readiness.
Criticism & Opposition
Analysts described Miller as “consistent but not awe-inspiring,” citing limited power. Commentary also highlighted Detroit’s defensive gaps, stressing the need for more pass-rush options beyond Hutchinson.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
Pride of Detroit calls Miller “the most consistent and ready-to-play OT,” while The Tennessean notes a lack of power, creating a nuanced contrast. The sources omit most later-round player names, leaving a data gap.
Verbatim Quotes
- “17 overall | Blake Miller, OT, Clemson Instant grade: B B Analysis: Miller will do what needs to be done and be where he needs to be.” — The Tennessean analysis
- “He doesn't wow with his power, but he's a consistent player and a solid athlete.” — The Tennessean analysis
- “90 RAS), GRIT (6th-best player on our Grit Index), football intelligence, and leadership makes him a very appealing prospect for the Lions, but it’s his gritty demeanor that makes him a perfect fit.” — Pride of Detroit
- “Miller simply doesn’t take shortcuts in his work ethic, as he is unwilling to let his team down.” — Pride of Detroit
What’s Next
The Lions will keep evaluating later-round talent as the draft ends. Miller’s integration and possible Sewell repositioning will shape training-camp, while the team pursues free-agency moves to bolster pass-rush depth.
