The Lions believe that they have found a cornerstone offensive lineman in Blake Miller. The former Clemson player was drafted with the 17th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Miller is already getting a firsthand look at what makes Detroit one of the league’s most passionate sports cities. The rookie threw out the ceremonial first pitch at Comerica Park before the Detroit Tigers’ game with the Seattle Mariners. Miller recently opened up to Brad Galli about his early experience in the city on June 6th.

“Just like the amount of support I’ve received from all the people. Whether it’s on social media or just meeting people, just the warm welcome I’ve felt has been amazing,” Miller said. 

Miller also mentioned how he now realised the extent to which the city cares about sports.

“It’s very clear how much Detroit football and Detroit sports mean to the people of the city. “

The rookie admitted that seeing the passions has only increased his motivation heading into his first season.

“It just makes me want to go that much harder to give my all for these people because they deserve it.”  

Miller also talked about how he felt about being given the opportunity to make the ceremonial first pitch.

“It was definitely a special invitation to receive, and I was just so grateful to be here.”

With all this love and support, Miller will have big shoes to fill once the season starts as well.

Miller Expected To Start Right Away

According to Gennaro Filice of NFL.com, the Lions will need instant production from their rookie. Due to the Lions drafting Miller and having released Taylor Decker after he had a poor season, they have been forced to shift their 3-time All-Pro and 4-time Pro Bowler, Penei Sewell, to the left side.

While Sewell has played left tackle before in college, the Lions have to choose between Miller and Larry Borom. Borom was a fifth-round pick in 2021 and has started 38 times. However, he was mostly starting for struggling teams (Chicago Bears and Miami Dolphins). 

One of the biggest reasons that fans and media are expecting the Lions to have a better year in 2026 is because of the changes to the offensive line. However, if Miller does not step up and perform right away, it could become a problem.

The team would have 5 starters under the age of 27 and four starters who were former draft picks by the team. However, three of them would be in their first three seasons. If they want to compete this year, the Lions need Miller to perform from the first snap of the season. 

How do you think Miller will perform this season? Let us know in the comments!

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Written by

Dhruv Vishnu Nair

Edited by

Zaid Quraishi