Lions Already Made Their Day 1 Move: Blake Miller at 17, and Friday's Pick Could Change Everything on the Edge

The Detroit Lions wrapped up round one Thursday night by nabbing Clemson tackle Blake Miller with the 17th overall pick, and they're eyeing Day 2 as a chance to address one of their biggest needs. Miller slots in as a plug and play right tackle who can contribute immediately in both the run game and pass protection. But what's really interesting? The Lions are heading into Friday with just one second-round pick on the board, the 50th overall selection.

Why Just One Pick in Round Two?

Detroit dealt away their third-round pick last year to move up and land wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, which tells you something about how the front office valued that move. Now they're laser focused with limited ammunition on Day 2. They've got one shot to address the trenches Friday, and the mock drafts are already weighing in on what that could look like.

The Edge Rusher Blueprint

ESPN's Matt Miller has the Lions rolling with Missouri edge Zion Young at pick 50. Here's the pitch: Young projects as a legit three-down defensive end with the strength to be as disruptive in the run game as he is attacking the passer. That would give Detroit a much-needed running mate opposite Aidan Hutchinson, something the Lions have been chasing since Hutchinson got drafted. Young brings the versatility this team has been hunting for on that edge.

The Lions made their statement on Thursday. Now Friday is about finding the complement piece that turns their defense into something dangerous.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.