One of the worst-kept secrets heading into the 2026 NFL Draft was that the Detroit Lions were targeting a new offensive tackle.

In the weeks leading up to the draft, rumors swirled that several teams might trade ahead of Detroit to grab Kadyn Proctor, the standout offensive lineman from University of Alabama. Many mock drafts projected Proctor as the Lions’ top choice.

Instead, the Miami Dolphins traded back one spot and selected Proctor with the No. 12 overall pick.

Despite concerns about his weight and effort level during the pre-draft process, Proctor’s talent and upside made him one of the most intriguing offensive line prospects in the class. If his potential is fully realized, many evaluators believe he could eventually become the best offensive tackle from the 2026 draft.

However, Proctor may not begin his NFL career at tackle.

Dolphins Plan to Start Kadyn Proctor at Guard

During an appearance on The Joe Rose Show, Dolphins general manager Jon‑Eric Sullivan revealed that Proctor was their preferred target all along. He also explained that Proctor will initially line up at left guard rather than left or right tackle.

The move shifts Jonah Savaiinaea from left guard to right guard, giving Miami a revamped interior offensive line.

While positions could change during training camp or in future seasons, the Dolphins’ immediate plan is to develop Proctor on the interior. This aligns with some pre-draft evaluations that suggested his size and strength might translate well to guard early in his career.

Miami is expected to keep Patrick Paul at left tackle and Austin Jackson at right tackle. Jackson missed parts of the 2025 season with a toe injury, which allowed Larry Borom—who later joined Detroit—to start in his place.

If both tackles remain healthy, the Dolphins can give Proctor time to adjust to the NFL without rushing him into a tackle role.

Blake Miller Gives Detroit the Immediate Starter It Needed

While Proctor’s upside is undeniable, the Detroit Lions needed a plug-and-play tackle rather than a developmental project.

That’s why selecting Blake Miller from Clemson University made perfect sense.

Detroit’s offensive line overhaul left left guard as the biggest remaining question mark. The team could choose to stick with Christian Mahogany, pursue a veteran like Joel Bitonio, or rely on Juice Scruggs, who arrived via the trade involving David Montgomery.

But the bigger priority was finding a long-term replacement for Taylor Decker at tackle—someone capable of starting immediately on the right side and eventually allowing Penei Sewell to shift to left tackle.

Unlike Proctor, Miller brings extensive experience at right tackle. The Clemson standout earned First-Team All-ACC honors twice at the position, making him one of the most NFL-ready tackles in the draft.

Why the Lions’ Draft Decision Looks Like the Right Move

The Lions needed a day-one starter at right tackle, especially after finishing last in the NFC North the previous season. Detroit simply couldn’t afford to spend time developing a player who might need to change positions.

Miller’s experience and readiness make him a strong fit for Detroit’s offensive line right away.

Meanwhile, with Proctor beginning his career at guard in Miami, the Lions’ decision to select Miller at No. 17 appears even smarter.

Proctor could still develop into a star in the future. But for a team trying to rebound quickly, Detroit’s choice to draft a proven right tackle may prove to be the correct call—both now and in the long run.