Frank Ragnow’s retirement lasted less than a year.
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the All-Pro center is ending his retirement and rejoining the Detroit Lions amid the team’s push to secure a spot in the NFC playoff bracket. Ragnow initially retired in June.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, one source said Ragnow decided to come out of retirement because he “loves the game.”
The Lions drafted Ragnow with the 20th overall pick in the 2018 NFL draft out of Arkansas, and he quickly established himself as one of the best centers in the NFL. In just seven seasons, he earned four Pro Bowl nods and three Second-team All-Pro bids.
While he found plenty of success, he also dealt with injuries through his first seven seasons, suffering a season-ending torn plantar plate in his left foot in 2021 after just four games and dealing with toe, knee and ankle injuries in 2023.
In an Instagram post announcing his retirement in June, Ragnow cited injuries as a main reason for hanging up his cleats.
“These past couple of months have been very trying as I’ve come to the realization that my football journey is ending and I’m officially retiring from the NFL,” he wrote. “I’ve tried to convince myself that I’m feeling good but I’m not and it’s time to prioritize my health and my [family’s] future. I have given this team everything I have and I thought I had more to give, but the reality is I simply don’t. I have to listen to my body and this has been one of the hardest decisions of my life. The Lions organization has been absolutely incredible throughout this process and I can’t emphasize this enough how grateful I am for this team and all the fans. It was an absolute honor going to battle for you all.”
Ahead of the NFL trade deadline in November, Lions head coach Dan Campbell was asked about Ragnow potentially coming out of retirement, but he said it didn’t seem like a possibility.
Ragnow’s return comes at a perfect time for the Lions as they look to close out the season strong and secure another playoff appearance. It’s unclear whether he’ll be ready for Thursday’s contest against the Green Bay Packers or if he’ll have to wait until Week 14’s contest against the Dallas Cowboys.
