‘I've never had anyone like him' Clemson coaches on what to expect from new Lions tackle Blake Miller

The Detroit Lions selected Clemson tackle Blake Miller with the 17th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on night one. The pick makes a ton of sense from the Lions’ side of things. He’s a culture fit in every sense of the word. A guy who started 54 straight games and got better and better […]

The Detroit Lions selected Clemson tackle Blake Miller with the 17th pick in the 2026 NFL Draft on night one.

The pick makes a ton of sense from the Lions’ side of things. He’s a culture fit in every sense of the word. A guy who started 54 straight games and got better and better every single year. The Lions love him for sure, and you can understand all the reasons why.

If you can’t, allow a couple of Clemson coaches to help persuade you.

Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney says he’s never had a player like Blake Miller

“Blake Miller is one of one. 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 first-round offensive lineman, and, boy, is he worthy. He is big, he’s strong, he’s athletic, he’s a leader, and he’s one of the most committed guys I’ve ever coached. He’s a finisher. He was a captain for us. This guy started every game of his entire career from being a true freshman all the way through his senior year. He only missed two practices in his whole career, never missed a game. So, man, I think he’s got day one ability. I think he walks in and he helps their football team the day he gets there.”

Clemson offensive line coach Matt Luke

“They’re getting a true professional in every sense. He consistently takes care of his business from his physical preparation and nutrition to his approach to the game. His durability and commitment are unmatched, having played in 54 consecutive games without missing one, and missing only two practices over four years. Blake is an exceptional person and an outstanding player, making him a very low-risk addition. He will be a leader both in the locker room and in the community. He’s an all-around high-character individual and competitor."

All stuff you want to hear about the Lions new tackle. The reviews coming in from just about everyone are high. The Lions made a great pick and there hasn’t been really anyone who thinks otherwise. Let’s see if they can continue along that route.