The Detroit Lions' 2026 training camp is set to be a pivotal moment for the team, particularly in the offensive tackle room. With the departure of Taylor Decker and the retirement of Dan Skipper, the Lions have made some bold moves to reshape their offensive line. The question on everyone's mind is: Will Blake Miller secure the starting right tackle (RT) job? This is a crucial development, as it could set the tone for the entire season and highlight the regime's commitment to their first-round picks.
Personally, I think Miller's potential win is a fascinating prospect. His experience, combined with his physical attributes, makes him a strong contender. What makes this particularly intriguing is the Lions' willingness to give a rookie a chance. Historically, they've shown faith in their first-round picks, and Miller's college resume is impressive. With 54 starts under his belt, he's got more experience than most rookies, and his size (6-foot-7) and athleticism (RAS: 9.9) are ideal for the position. However, it's important to note that the Lions have a history of keeping only three offensive tackles on the active roster, so Miller will have to prove himself in training camp.
One thing that immediately stands out is the cross-training aspect. The Lions have a strategy of keeping at least one pure tackle on the practice squad and cross-training interior depth for emergencies. This means that players like Colby Sorsdal, Miles Frazier, and Mason Miller could be in the mix for the RT position. Frazier, in particular, has been cross-trained at tackle and has the potential to win a reserve job on the active roster. This adds another layer of competition for Miller, as the Lions have a history of giving opportunities to players who can do multiple positions.
From my perspective, the battle between Miller and Larry Borom is the key to the Lions' offensive line success. Borom has a solid history of playing right tackle, but he's also versatile, with starting experience at left tackle and guard. If he can continue his play from the second half of last season, he'll be an upgrade to the Lions' OT3 position. His ability to play on both sides of the line and guard in a pinch gives the Lions flexibility, and he's likely to assume the OL6 position, adding blocking bulk and power.
What many people don't realize is that the Lions' roster construction plans are often fluid. In 2025, Giovanni Manu was the third and final tackle on the roster for the first month of the season, but he could be entering a make-or-break training camp. With Sewell, Miller, and Borom looking solid, Manu will need to make significant improvements to challenge for the OT3 role. This raises a deeper question: How will the Lions' roster construction evolve in the coming years? Will they continue to prioritize versatility and depth, or will they lean more heavily on their first-round picks?
In conclusion, the Detroit Lions' 2026 training camp is a critical juncture for the team's offensive line. The battle for the starting RT job between Blake Miller and Larry Borom is a fascinating prospect, and the cross-training strategy adds another layer of intrigue. As the camp unfolds, we'll gain a deeper understanding of the Lions' plans and the potential for their offensive line to be a strength in the upcoming season. This is a story worth watching, as it could shape the Lions' future and provide valuable insights into the NFL's ever-evolving landscape.
