The Detroit Lions have lost a key player in their offensive line with Pro Bowl centre Frank Ragnow announcing his retirement after seven NFL seasons. At just 29 years old, Ragnow cited his health and family as reasons for stepping away from the game.
“It’s time to prioritise my health and my family’s future,” Ragnow wrote on social media. “This has been one of the hardest decisions of my life. I have given this team everything I have, but the reality is I simply don’t have more to give.”
Ragnow, drafted in the first round in 2018, has been one of the league’s best centres. He earned four Pro Bowl selections and was named second-team All-Pro three times. Known for his toughness, he played through numerous injuries including concussions, groin and pectoral injuries. Despite these, he rarely missed games, proving to be a vital force in Detroit’s offence.
Head coach Dan Campbell praised Ragnow’s grit, calling him “stubborn” and “hard-headed” for his determination to keep playing even after injuries.
Ragnow started his career at left guard before switching to centre in 2019, where he became a cornerstone of the Lions’ offensive line, especially in their run game.
His retirement leaves a big gap in Detroit’s interior line just as the team heads into a challenging offseason. Fortunately, general manager Brad Holmes has been preparing by drafting interior linemen in recent years. Second-round pick Tate Ratledge and fifth-round pick Miles Frazier in 2025, along with 2024’s sixth-rounder Christian Mahogany, are expected to help fill the void.
The Lions may also shift veteran Graham Glasgow to centre, where he has experience from more than 2,600 snaps in nine seasons. Ratledge has trained at centre during offseason activities and could take on the role as a rookie. Backup Michael Niese is also available at centre.
With offensive coordinator Ben Johnson leaving for Chicago, the Lions now face the challenge of integrating new voices and players into the offence. Jared Goff will need to adjust to a new centre snapping the ball as the team aims to stay competitive in a tough NFL landscape.
Ragnow’s decision marks the end of an era for Detroit’s offensive line. His dedication and leadership will be missed both on and off the field.
Photo: Perry Knotts/Getty Images
