Four-time Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow is returning from retirement to bolster the Detroit Lions' offensive line. The move comes after Ragnow stepped away in early June due to a series of injuries accumulated over seven NFL seasons. He has stayed in shape and could be ready to play soon.
Frank Ragnow, a four-time Pro Bowl center who spent his entire seven-year NFL career with the Detroit Lions, announced his return from retirement on Wednesday. NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported the news, citing sources close to Ragnow. The Lions subsequently moved him from the reserve/retired list to the exempt/commissioner permission list, signaling his imminent return to the roster.
Ragnow retired in early June after dealing with multiple injuries, including a concussion, groin issue, foot problem, knee injury, pectoral tear, and a fractured throat. These setbacks left a significant gap in Detroit's offensive line, which the team addressed by shifting guard Graham Glasgow to center and drafting Georgia's Tate Ratledge to strengthen the interior. Recent injuries have further tested the unit, making Ragnow's return timely as defenses have increased pressure on quarterback Jared Goff.
Upon proving his readiness, Ragnow is expected to reclaim the center position, allowing Glasgow to shift back to guard alongside Ratledge and undrafted free agent Kayode Awosika. The Lions celebrated the news on social media with a photo of Ragnow running out of the Ford Field tunnel, a sight fans hope to see in games soon. This addition provides a substantial boost to an offensive line that has faced challenges in recent weeks.