Introduction
When Frank Ragnow announced his retirement in June 2025, many in the league — and among Detroit Lions fans — felt the blow. A foundational member of Detroit’s offensive line for years, Ragnow’s toughness, consistency, and elite play made him one of the NFL’s premier centers.
But fast forward just five months — in late November 2025 — Ragnow shocked the NFL world by coming out of retirement and re-signing with the Lions.
In this article, we dive deep into his career — from college to the pros — his accolades and stats, the context of his retirement, and what his return may mean for Detroit.
Early Life & College Years
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Frank Ragnow was born on May 17, 1996, in Victoria, Minnesota.
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He attended high school in Chanhassen, Minnesota, where he ranked among the top offensive-tackle prospects nationally as a senior.
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Ragnow committed to Arkansas Razorbacks. During his college career, he played as a guard before transitioning to center, earning All-American honors and establishing himself as a top interior lineman.
His collegiate performance set the stage for his entry to the NFL: strong footwork, solid run-blocking, and versatility across the interior line.
NFL Career & Achievements
Draft & Early Years
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Ragnow was selected in the first round, 20th overall, by the Detroit Lions in the 2018 NFL Draft.
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He immediately became a key figure on Detroit’s offensive line, eventually settling into the center position.
Pro Bowl & All-Pro Honors
Over his first seven seasons (2018–2024), Ragnow built a résumé few centers match:
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4× Pro Bowl (2020, 2022, 2023, 2024)
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3× Second-Team All-Pro (2020, 2023, 2024)
These accolades reflected his elite performance, durability, and leadership at the heart of Detroit’s offensive line.
Career Stats & Impact
According to statistical records:
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Height: 6′5″, Weight: 310 lbs — prototypical size for a dominant NFL center.
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Over his first seven seasons, Ragnow appeared in 96 games, starting all of them.
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According to one analytics provider (for the 2024 season), he graded among the top centers in run blocking (ranked 3rd among centers) with a Run Block Grade of 90.8; overall grade was 85.3 — placing him among the elite at his position.
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Over his career, he played over 1600 “AV” (approximate value) credited snaps, marking a consistently high-level career since 1960 benchmarks.
Beyond raw stats, Ragnow’s presence significantly anchored both Detroit’s run game and pass protection schemes — a stabilizing force often underappreciated by casual fans.
Retirement: June 2025 — Why He Walked Away
On June 2, 2025, at just 29 years old, Ragnow announced his retirement from the NFL after seven seasons.
The reason was straightforward but poignant: he cited health concerns and a desire to prioritize his long-term well-being and family. “I simply don’t,” he wrote, acknowledging that despite trying, his body was no longer responding the way it once did.
Multiple injuries and the cumulative toll — including foot and toe issues, among others — took their price.
The decision came as a shock to many, with fans and teammates expressing disappointment but also empathy.
The Unretirement: November 2025 — What Changed?
In late November 2025 — just five months after resigning his career — Ragnow reversed course. Multiple outlets reported that he will unretire and rejoin the Detroit Lions.
The return has been confirmed by team sources.
Insiders suggest that Ragnow is “in shape and ready to roll sooner, rather than later.”
His comeback comes at a critical time for Detroit. The offensive line — without Ragnow — has suffered, especially in pass protection. Bringing him back could restore cohesion, communication, and stability up front.
While it remains unclear exactly when he will suit up, many expect him to return to the starting lineup soon.
What Ragnow’s Return Means for the Lions (2025 Season)
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Improved pass protection: Detroit’s quarterback has been under increased pressure; Ragnow’s return should help stabilize the pocket.
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Stronger run game: With Ragnow’s elite run-blocking ability — as shown by his 2024 run-block grade — Detroit’s ground attack could get a boost.
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Leadership and cohesion: As a proven veteran and four-time Pro Bowler, Ragnow brings intangible benefits: locker-room leadership, experience in high-stakes games, and a sense of calm under pressure.
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Playoff push possibility: With a midseason addition of a player of Ragnow’s caliber, the Lions could improve their playoff chances. His presence might be the edge the offense needs down the stretch.
Legacy So Far — And What Could Come
Even before this unexpected comeback, Ragnow had built a legacy as one of the best centers of his generation: 96 games started, 4 Pro Bowls, multiple All-Pro honors.
If his return proves successful and he performs at or near his previous level, it could cement his reputation even more firmly: a “Lion” who overcame injuries, walked away for health — but came back when his team needed him.
For fans, it’s not just about the numbers — it’s about loyalty, resilience, and commitment.
FAQs
Q1: When did Frank Ragnow retire and why?
A: Frank Ragnow announced his retirement on June 2, 2025, citing long-term health concerns and the need to prioritise his well-being and family.
Q2: How many seasons and games did Ragnow play before retiring?
A: He played seven seasons (2018–2024) for the Detroit Lions and started 96 games.
Q3: What are Frank Ragnow’s major NFL achievements?
A: He is a 4-time Pro Bowler (2020, 2022, 2023, 2024) and a 3-time Second-Team All-Pro (2020, 2023, 2024).
Q4: When did he decide to come out of retirement and rejoin the Lions?
A: In late November 2025, it was confirmed that Ragnow would unretire and return to the Detroit Lions.
Q5: What does his return mean for the Lions offense this season?
A: His return brings potential improvements in pass protection, run blocking, and overall offensive line cohesion — all critical for Detroit’s playoff hopes.
Conclusion
Frank Ragnow’s story in 2025 has taken a dramatic arc: from retirement to comeback, from farewell to re-commitment. His return to the Detroit Lions isn’t just a news headline — it’s a beacon of hope for a team aiming to recapture its offensive dominance.
If he can return to his pre-retirement form, Ragnow may yet write one of the more compelling comeback chapters in recent NFL memory.
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