Blake Miller over Monroe Freeling a surprise? Reaction to Lions' pick

The Detroit Lions have their long-term solution at right tackle. The Lions used the 17th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft to select Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller, who comes in with a boat load of experience. Miller got the starting right tackle job as a freshman and never gave it back, starting 54 games total and at least 13 games every year he played for Dabo Swinney. It fills a huge hole for the Lions, who had to replace longtime left tackle Taylor Decker after the team decided to cut him in a cap-saving measure. It also likely means a move to left tackle for Lions tackle Penei Sewell, who has played much of his career on the right side. **THE GRADE:** Lions 2026 NFL Draft Round 1 grade, as Blake Miller makes them nimbler But what is the reaction online to the pick by Lions general manager Brad Holmes? The consensus seems to be it's a hard pick to dislike, as Miller has a high floor, a lot of experience and fills a big hole. But did the Lions miss a player with higher upside in Monroe Freeling, selected 19th by the Carolina Panthers? Here are the best reactions online:

Would not have taken Blake Miller over Monroe Freeling if I were the #Lions

— Brent Rollins (@BrentRollinsPhD) April 24, 2026 I am a little surprised, like very mildly, that the Lions opted for Blake Miller over Monroe Freeling. But Miller was such an easy projection for this Lions team. And my final projection for Detroit too

— Jeff Risdon (@JeffRisdon) April 24, 2026 gave @colton\_pouncy a Blake Miller comp back in winter: