Day 1 of the 2026 NFL draft is over, and the Detroit Lions have selected Blake Miller using their No. 17 pick. When asked about how he saw himself contributing to his new team, the young OL gave a simple response, rather than making grand claims.

In a recent ESPN interview following Miller's draft, Eric Woodyard asked him if he wanted to first find his spot in the team's dynamic or contribute immediately. Miller explained that his main target is to put in effort every single day. The clip was shared by Woodyard on X Thursday night.

“For me, my goal is to come in and work as hard as I can and be the best player I can be,” Miller said. “I want to make sure I give my best in workouts, on the field, and in the film room. At the end of the day, I just want to know I gave everything I had.”

His college production shows strong growth over time. Miller acted as the starting offensive tackle for the Clemson Tigers for four consecutive years, from 2022 to 2025.

In 2025, Miller posted a 78.5 overall PFF grade and kept penalties down to just five, showing cleaner play compared to earlier years. Furthermore, he did not miss any games due to injuries, which is a testament to his durability as an OL.

Each year also showed clear improvement in Miller's control and consistency. Back in 2022, he started at 71.8 overall with stronger run blocking but more penalties, which kept rising steadily to 72.9 in 2023, and 75.6 in 2024. His stats seem to back up his mantra of giving a hundred percent every single day.

Blake Miller’s focus on daily effort shows his mindset for 2026 as he looks to compete, grow, and earn trust in the Lions. Meanwhile, his former coach didn’t hold back praise after the draft.

Blake Miller Gets Appreciation After Draft From His Former Coach

Blake Miller’s move to the Detroit Lions was not only big news for the Lions but also a proud moment for his college coach. Dabo Swinney, who guided Miller at Clemson, had nothing but praise for Miller.

“Blake Miller is one of one, " Miller’s former coach said, as per Clemson Athletes. “I've never really had one like him. On the offensive line, I've had second-rounders, third-rounders, fourth-rounders, every round you can think, but he's my first-round offensive lineman, and, boy, is he worthy.”

Those words reveal the respect Miller earned during his college career and the faith his coach and team had in him. Miller’s time at Clemson was marked by durability and consistency.

“He is big, he's strong,” Swinney said. “He's athletic, he's a leader, and he's one of the most committed guys I've ever coached. He's a finisher."

The 22-year-old started every game in his career, setting records for snaps taken. His strong growth as a pass protector made him one of the most trusted players on the Tigers’ offensive line.

While his run blocking still needs improvement, Miller now has the chance to learn from one of the best in the NFL, Penei Sewell. That mentorship could help him round out his game and become a complete tackle.

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Written by

Anjali Thakur

Edited by

Arundhoti Palit