As we gear up for the Detroit Lions' 2026 training camp, one of the most intriguing battles to watch unfold is the competition for the starting right tackle position. With a mix of veteran presence and promising rookies, the offensive line room is a hotbed of speculation and strategic decisions.
The Battle for RT: Blake Miller vs. Larry Borom
The Lions' decision to release Taylor Decker and retire Dan Skipper has opened up a significant void on the right side of the offensive line. Stepping into the spotlight is Blake Miller, the team's first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Miller, a highly touted prospect, brings a unique blend of size, strength, and athleticism to the table. With 54 starts in college, he's already amassed more experience than the average rookie, and his impressive RAS score of 9.9 suggests he's an ideal fit for the NFL.
On the other side of the equation is Larry Borom, a Michigan native and NFL veteran. Borom has a solid track record of playing right tackle in the league, but his versatility extends beyond that. He's also started at left tackle and guard, making him a valuable swing tackle option. The Lions' plan to let Miller and Borom compete for the starting role is an exciting prospect, as it showcases the team's commitment to finding the best fit for the position.
Reading Between the Lines
While the Lions have publicly stated that the competition is open, there are subtle hints that suggest Miller is the favorite to win the starting job. During spring practices, Miller took every rep at right tackle, while Borom split his time between the right and left sides. This cross-training approach is more typical for a swing tackle, indicating that the team may already have Borom penciled in for that role.
Borom's Versatility: A Swing Tackle and OL6 Option
Borom's versatility is a significant asset for the Lions. With his ability to play multiple positions, he can provide depth and flexibility to the offensive line. If he continues his strong play from the second half of last season, he could be an upgrade at the OT3 position. Additionally, Borom's experience as an eligible offensive lineman in jumbo sets makes him a valuable asset for adding blocking power and bulk when needed.
Manu's Make-or-Break Camp
Giovanni Manu, the Lions' third tackle in 2025, finds himself in a precarious position heading into training camp. With a disappointing rookie season and an injury-plagued sophomore campaign, Manu needs to make a strong impression to secure a spot on the roster. The Lions' typical roster construction plans suggest that only three offensive tackles make the initial roster, and with Sewell, Miller, and Borom solidifying their roles, Manu faces an uphill battle.
Cross-Training: The Lions' Depth Strategy
One of the Lions' strategies for maintaining depth on the offensive line is cross-training. By stashing pure tackles on the practice squad and cross-training interior depth, the team ensures they have options for emergencies. Colby Sorsdal, Miles Frazier, Mason Miller, and Melvin Priestly are all expected to cross-train inside and out during training camp. Sorsdal, who began his NFL career at right tackle, has been repping at that position again this spring, while Frazier, with his extensive guard experience, has been mainly repping inside.
The Future of the Lions' Offensive Line
As the Lions head into training camp, the offensive line room is a fascinating mix of experience and potential. The competition between Miller and Borom for the starting right tackle position is a key storyline, but the development of players like Manu, Sorsdal, and Frazier will also shape the future of the unit. With a combination of veteran leadership and promising rookies, the Lions' offensive line has the potential to be a strength for the team in 2026 and beyond.
Final Thoughts
The Detroit Lions' 2026 training camp promises to be an exciting showcase of talent and strategy. With the offensive line room in flux, the competition for starting roles will be intense. Personally, I'm intrigued to see how Blake Miller performs and whether he can live up to his billing as the most NFL-ready tackle in this draft class. The battle for the starting right tackle position is just one piece of the puzzle, but it's a crucial one that could have a significant impact on the Lions' success in the upcoming season.
