Why the Lions picked Blake Miller over Panthers tackle in 2026 draft

The Detroit Lions selected Clemson right tackle Blake Miller with the 17th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, opting for him over Georgia’s Monroe Freeling as their priority for right tackle readiness. Lions coach Dan Campbell said the key difference was Miller’s four-year experience as a starter, noting he had “taken a ton of reps.” Freeling, though also considered highly athletic, started only 14 college games and was a starter for fewer reps than Miller. Miller played 3,762 snaps and started all 54 career games. Freeling was taken two picks later by the Carolina Panthers at No. 19.