Packers' division rivals make picks in first round of 2026 draft
The Packers didn't make a pick in the first round on Thursday night, but the Bears, Lions and Vikings did. A quick look at the new players in the NFC North.
The Green Bay Packers did not make a pick during the first round of the 2026 NFL draft on Thursday night, but the Chicago Bears , Detroit Lions and Minnesota Vikings all did. Each of the Packers' division rivals stayed put and made a pick during the second half of the first round. Of course, the Packers spent their 2026 first-round pick on acquiring Micah Parsons.
The excitement of adding an All-Pro last August meant having a quiet Thursday night in late April while the rest of the division picked out a shiny new toy. A quick look at the new first-round picks joining the NFC North: Detroit Lions: OT Blake Miller, Clemson The Lions used the 17th overall pick on Miller, a much-needed investment at offensive tackle after losing long-time starter Taylor Decker this offseason. Miller played primarily on the right side for Clemson, so it's likely the Lions will move All-Pro Penei Sewell to the left side.
In a division with Micah Parsons on the prowl, offensive tackle is an ultra premium position. Dane Brugler, The Athletic: "Miller has a good mix of on-field talent and intangibles. In pass protection, he is quick off the ball, with the range to mirror rushers up the arc and a surprisingly sturdy anchor to answer different types of rushers.
Miller also shows his foot quickness and physical demeanor to move bodies in the run game. He isn’t a great bender, though, and savvy NFL rushers will find some success using his aggressive techniques against him. His coaches rave about his smarts and football character (NFL scout: “I think he missed one practice in four years.
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