After the Detroit Lions chose Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller at No. 17 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft on Thursday night from Pittsburgh, ESPN's Eric Woodyard provided draft analysis of the franchise's first-round selection.
According to Woodyard, Miller is viewed as a foundational draft pick by the Lions, as Detroit looks to reignite its aggressive, dominant offensive line unit that powered the franchise to back-to-back NFC North division titles in 2023 and 2024.
In particular, Woodyard pointed to Miller's pass-blocking as one of his most impactful strengths and views it as a major boost to the Lions' ability to better protect quarterback Jared Goff next year and beyond.
In the post-draft assessments from head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes, both noted the consistency and physicality shown across Miller's 54-career starts at Clemson.
For more Lions coverage, follow us on X, @TheLionsWire, and give our Facebook page a like. Follow Scout on X: @SpringgateNews
This article originally appeared on Lions Wire: ESPN comments on Detroit Lions' first-round NFL draft pick
