Detroit Lions 'strongly' weighed trade-up for Clemson OT Blake Miller

Allen Park — As the 2026 NFL Draft neared its start, the Detroit Lions were among the rumored teams that were picking up steam as a trade-up candidate in Round 1.

But when the dust settled on the first round Thursday night, the Lions got their man at pick No. 17, Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller, without having to give up any additional capital.

Lions general manager Brad Holmes confirmed that he "strongly" weighed the possibility of a trade-up after offensive tackles were taken with pick Nos. 9 (Spencer Fano, Cleveland Browns), 10 (Francis Mauigoa, New York Giants) and 12 (Kadyn Proctor, Miami Dolphins).

"We did," Holmes said, smiling, when asked if he thought about pulling the trigger on a trade. "Look, we talked to teams up, way up ... to see if we can be at peace with what the capital is that you'd have to extend. But yeah, we definitely explored strongly about trading up."

Holmes has never been wont to chase positions in his post as Lions GM, but the Lions had a glaring need at tackle in a tackle-heavy Round 1. He said he was worried about teams learning about Detroit's tackle-needs and jumping in front of them to secure Miller. The Lions were heavily linked to Proctor, who went earlier in the round, during the pre-draft process.

Mar 1, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Clemson offensive lineman Blake Miller (OL35) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images