Frank Ragnow: Injury| Contract| Why did retire| Is playing tomorrow

Introduction

Frank Ragnow — once a rock-solid anchor at center for Detroit Lions — has been making headlines recently. After announcing his retirement in June 2025 citing health concerns, he stunned fans by reversing course and rejoining the team in November. In this piece, we dig deep into his injury history, contract details, what drove his retirement, and whether he might line up for Detroit’s next game.

Injury History & Why It Mattered

• Ragnow’s career has included some serious durability concerns. Notably:

• In 2021, he suffered a torn plantar plate in his left foot (commonly referred to as a “turf-toe / plantar-plate tear”), which forced him to IR after just four games that season.

• Despite such challenges, Ragnow earned a contract extension in 2021 — testimony to his talent and value.

• Over the years, he also played through various aches: including in 2024 when he missed only one game (Week 4) due to a partially torn pectoral muscle — but still returned to start the remaining games and earned another Pro Bowl nod.

• By 2025, the cumulative toll — chronic toe problems, wear-and-tear over seven seasons — made the grind increasingly difficult.

Hence, while Ragnow remained elite when healthy, his injury history was a constant concern and helped set the stage for his temporary retirement.

Contract & Career Value

Understanding Ragnow’s contract helps contextualize how much the Lions valued him, and why his initial retirement came as a shock.

These numbers underscore that Ragnow was not just a depth piece — he was a cornerstone of Detroit’s offensive line. His contract represented a major commitment, and his durability (when healthy) delivered consistent value.

Why Did He Retire in June 2025?

When Ragnow announced retirement in June 2025, many fans were shocked. But the reasons — revealed in his statement and media reports — painted a clearer picture:

• He cited ongoing health issues, especially related to prior injuries — the chronic toe issues from the 2021 plantar-plate injury being a primary culprit.

• He said he “no longer felt good” despite attempts to push through, and felt compelled to prioritize his long-term health and family’s future.

• Despite playing through pain and still performing at a high level (even as recently as 2024), Ragnow admitted the toll had become too great — both physically and mentally.

In short: the body had begun to demand more than he felt safe giving. At only 29 — younger than many retirees — the decision highlighted just how punishing life in the trenches can be, especially after repeated injuries.

The Shocking Return: What Changed?

Fast-forward to late November 2025 — and a surprise announcement: Ragnow is coming out of retirement.

What we know

• The comeback was confirmed by both the team and respected NFL insiders such as Ian Rapoport and via official team social media.

• According to reports, he’s “in shape and ready to roll sooner, rather than later.”

• The reasons for un-retiring: primary among them is that he still “loves the game,” and likely a sense that he could still contribute — especially with Detroit’s offensive line dealing with injuries.

• The timing is critical: The team is in the thick of a playoff push and has faced multiple injuries on the line, creating an urgent need for dependable veterans.

In other words: what once seemed like a definitive goodbye has become an emotional — and strategic — comeback.

Is Frank Ragnow Playing Tomorrow? (As of Today)

As of now, despite the reinstatement, it’s uncertain if Ragnow will play in the next game (thanksgiving matchup vs. Green Bay Packers). Here’s where things stand:

• The team announced Ragnow’s return and reinstated his contract ahead of the Week 13 game.

• He was placed on the Exempt/Commissioner Permission List — a procedural move that allows him to reactivate, but does not guarantee immediate play.

• Current reporting suggests a Week 14 or Week 15 return (possibly against the Dallas Cowboys or Los Angeles Rams) is more likely than tomorrow’s game, giving the offensive line time to integrate and Ragnow to ramp up.

• That said — given injury concerns on the line and the team’s playoff ambitions — the possibility remains that he could be activated on short notice.

Bottom line: don’t count on him starting tomorrow — but stay alert. A return within the next 1–2 weeks seems plausible.

What His Return Means for the Lions & NFL

Ragnow’s comeback could have ripple effects across Detroit’s season and even the broader NFL landscape:

• Boost for Detroit’s Offensive Line: Detroit’s offensive line has suffered multiple injuries. Bringing back a four-time Pro Bowler and proven anchor stabilizes both pass protection and run blocking.

• Playoff Aspirations: With Detroit aiming for a playoff berth, Ragnow’s presence could be the difference in close games — especially in a division as tight as the NFC North.

• Legacy & Longevity Reflection: Ragnow’s un-retirement underlines the difficult trade-offs NFL players face — health vs. legacy vs. love of the game. It may also influence how other veteran players approach “retirement decisions” in the future.

• Roster/Cash-Cap Implications: Reinstating Ragnow activates his existing contract. For the Lions, that’s a large financial commitment — but one likely deemed worth it given his value on the field. Frank Ragnow.

FAQs — All You Want to Know About Frank Ragnow’s Return

Q: Why did Frank Ragnow retire in June 2025?
A: He cited long-term health concerns — especially recurring toe injuries from a 2021 plantar-plate tear — and a desire to prioritize his body and family’s future.

Q: What was the value of his contract with the Lions?
A: In 2021, he signed a 4-year extension worth US$ 54 million. The contract carried guarantees of roughly US$ 42 million, and his career earnings through 2024 stood at approximately US$ 57.4 million.

Q: Is he definitely returning to play this season?
A: Yes — he has been reinstated and is eligible to play this season.

Q: Will he play in the next game (tomorrow)?
A: It’s unlikely for the immediate next game (Thanksgiving vs. Packers). Media reports suggest his return may come in the following weeks (Week 14 or 15).

Q: Why the sudden comeback after retirement?
A: According to insiders, he “loves the game” and wants to contribute, especially with injuries on the Lions’ offensive line. The team’s need, combined with his willingness and (reportedly) regained shape, led to the decision.

Q: What impact could his return have for the Lions?
A: His return could stabilize pass protection, improve run blocking, provide leadership and experience — factors that may significantly boost Detroit’s playoff push. Frank Ragnow.

Conclusion

Frank Ragnow’s journey in 2025 has been nothing short of dramatic: from a surprising retirement in June, driven by legitimate health concerns and a desire for long-term well-being, to a surprise return just months later — motivated by love for the game, a team in need, and perhaps a final chance to play at full strength.

Whether or not he suits up in the immediate next game, his return is a massive psychological and strategic boost for the Detroit Lions. For fans of grit, perseverance, and redemption — Ragnow’s story this season is shaping up to be among the most compelling in the NFL.