Projecting Blake Miller’s Rookie Season: What will the Lions’ No. 17 Pick accomplish in year one?

Campbell now has two options that he can evaluate heading into the 2026 season. But it seems inevitable that the team’s new addition will be his preferred option.

Why Miller could have edge in battle for RT1 position

Although Borom might hope to start at right tackle ahead of Miller, the three-time All-ACC honoree has all the makings of a long-term starting tackle. Coming from a wrestling background has helped him learn how to leverage his body on the field.

While the 22-year-old showcased explosiveness on his Pro Day, one of the biggest drawbacks noted was the Clemson graduate’s hand usage, with some analysts arguing that he sometimes lacked command. But while that might go in Borom’s favor, the biggest advantage Miller has is his stature.

At six feet, seven inches, he has a 34.25-inch arm length, roughly an inch longer than Borom’s. Campbell will utilize that to Detroit’s advantage while training any flaws out of Miller in preseason training.

The good news is that the Tigers’ record-breaker has shown he’s a dedicated player, reportedly missing just one practice in college, which bodes well as he aims to cement himself as RT1.

Predicting how Miller’s rookie season will pan out

Anything can happen in the months before the Lions play their opening game, but it feels like Borom will be used as a “swing tackle” while Miller takes the reins opposite Sewell. Barring injury, there’s a strong chance that he could play every game in his rookie season.

From a statistical standpoint, Miller won’t be flawless as he adjusts to the pace of the NFL. After all, even the best tackles in every draft class will likely allow a few sacks and will be guilty of giving up a few penalties.

But in Sewell, Miller has one of the best tackles in the game to learn from. If he can take everything on board and improve on his 2025 college season, where he allowed 14 pressures and two sacks on his 194 true pass sets, then there’s a strong chance he follows in his teammate’s footsteps by earning PFWA All-Rookie Team recognition.