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By Anne Erickson
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Blake Miller isn't taking it easy in training camp.
The Detroit Lions' first-round pick has been thrown right into the mix, taking a heavy share of first-team reps as he begins competing for a significant role on one of the NFL's better offensive lines. That's a pretty good sign this early in camp.
Rookies don't always get that kind of workload, especially on a team with legitimate playoff expectations. But the Lions appear to want Miller to learn on the job, and they're giving him every opportunity to prove he belongs.
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So far, the confidence seems to be mutual. Miller has made it clear he expects a lot from himself, and Detroit's coaching staff has shown it believes he can handle the challenge. The early practices have been encouraging, but everyone knows the real evaluations begin once the pads come on. That's when offensive linemen earn their reputation.
There's another reason Miller has been one of the more interesting players to watch this summer. He's spending plenty of time lining up across from Aidan Hutchinson.
For a rookie tackle, there probably aren't many tougher assignments. Hutchinson has given Miller plenty to deal with during one-on-one drills and team periods, forcing him to adjust quickly against one of the league's premier pass rushers.
It hasn't always been easy. Then again, it isn't supposed to be.
If you're going to learn how to play offensive tackle in the NFL, there are worse ways to do it than battling one of the best defensive ends in football every day. Those reps can be frustrating in the moment, but they're also the kind that can speed up a young player's development.
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The Lions aren't looking for perfection from Miller in August. They're looking for progress.
If he continues earning first-team reps and keeps learning from every snap against Hutchinson, Detroit could have another young cornerstone on its offensive line. That's exactly what the organization was hoping for when it made him a first-round pick.
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