Four-time Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow has failed his physical and will not return to the Detroit Lions after attempting to end his retirement. The team announced the news on Saturday, citing a Grade 3 hamstring strain that would sideline him for the rest of the regular season. Lions head coach Dan Campbell expressed disappointment over the setback.
The Detroit Lions were set to receive a significant boost to their offensive line when Frank Ragnow, who retired in June at age 29, decided to come out of retirement and rejoin the team starting in Week 14. Ragnow, a first-round pick in 2018, had started all 96 games he played from 2018 to 2024 before stepping away due to health concerns.
However, after reporting to the Lions' facility on Friday, Ragnow failed his physical during a routine medical evaluation on Saturday. The exam revealed a Grade 3 hamstring strain that would prevent him from playing through the remainder of the regular season. As a result, he will not rejoin the team for the playoffs or this season.
"Frank Ragnow reported to our facility yesterday and went through the normal process of meetings," the Lions said in a statement. "Unfortunately, during the routine meeting with our medical team, Frank failed his physical. The medical exam revealed a Grade 3 hamstring strain that will keep him from participating for the remainder of the regular season. For that reason, Frank will not be rejoining the Lions. Frank has always been a team-first guy and is a true warrior. He will forever be a Lion."
Head coach Dan Campbell told reporters he was aware of the hamstring issue but its severity became clear only during the physical. He noted that a potential return in 2026 was not discussed.
The Lions, currently 7-5, have faced challenges along their offensive line since Ragnow's retirement. They moved Graham Glasgow from guard to center, with rookie Tate Ratledge filling Glasgow's previous role, but injuries have persisted. Glasgow missed the Thanksgiving game with a knee injury. Despite ranking second in the NFL in rushing yards and yards per carry, the unit has been inconsistent, relying heavily on Jahmyr Gibbs for explosive plays. Quarterback Jared Goff has been sacked 26 times this season, with more pressure coming up the middle. The team hopes to stabilize without Ragnow as they push for the postseason.