League: NFL Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Injuries

Lions draft Blake Miller over Panthers' Monroe Freeling in 2026 NFL Draft

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 30, 2026, 6:12 PM

Last updated Sep 30, 2026

Lions draft Blake Miller over Panthers' Monroe Freeling in 2026 NFL Draft

Summary

The Detroit Lions selected Blake Miller with the 17th overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, choosing him over Monroe Freeling of the Carolina Panthers. Lions coach Dan Campbell cited Miller's extensive game experience as a key factor in the decision. Miller started 54 consecutive games at Clemson, compared to Freeling's 17 starts at Georgia. Miller has started two of Detroit's three games this season, while Freeling has also begun his NFL career with some challenges in pass protection. Both players will have the opportunity to face each other in their upcoming matchup on October 4 at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Blake Miller was the 17th overall pick in the draft.
•Miller played 54 games at Clemson; Freeling played 17 at Georgia.
•Miller has started two of three games for the Lions this season.
•Freeling has allowed 14 pressures over 137 snaps in pass protection.
•Both players will face off on October 4.

Latest Updates

6:12 PMYahoo Sports — Why Lions drafted Blake Miller over Panthers' Monroe Freeling

What they're saying

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The Lions had the chance to select either Blake Miller or Monroe Freeling in the draft. Dan Campbell explains why they went with Miller.
— Yahoo Sports

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