Detroit Lions fans received a massive Thanksgiving-week surprise as former All-Pro center Frank Ragnow officially came out of retirement. His return couldn’t come at a better time for a Lions offensive line dealing with major injuries — and fighting for playoff positioning in a crowded NFC race.
Ragnow Returns to Rescue Lions’ Injured Offensive Line
Ragnow, 29, stepped away from football in June, but the Lions’ banged-up offensive front created a critical need. With Christian Mahogany and Graham Glasgow both sidelined, Detroit lacked a stabilizing presence in the middle of the line.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, a source close to Ragnow said the longtime Lions leader returned because he simply “loves the game.” Those three words summed up his decision — and instantly boosted Detroit’s postseason hopes.
Detroit Gains Back an Elite Center
Before retiring, Ragnow was one of the NFL’s premier interior linemen. He earned:
Three All-Pro selections
Four Pro Bowl appearances
An 85.3 PFF grade in 2024 — 3rd best among all NFL centers
His absence was felt immediately in Week 1 of the 2025 season. With Glasgow filling in at center and rookie Tate Ratledge still developing, the Lions’ offensive front struggled. The Green Bay Packers’ pass rush overwhelmed Detroit, exposing the huge void left by Ragnow.
Lions’ Playoff Push Gets Major Boost
Detroit enters Thanksgiving week at 7–4, sitting third in the NFC North behind the Packers, who hold second place. A win on Thursday would push the Lions to 8–4 and even the season series with Green Bay — a potentially crucial tiebreaker as the NFC playoff race intensifies.
Ragnow’s return couldn’t be better timed. The Lions face a brutal stretch of elite pass-rushing opponents, including:
Los Angeles Rams
Pittsburgh Steelers
Minnesota Vikings
With Ragnow back anchoring the offensive line, Detroit dramatically strengthens its protection for Jared Goff and stabilizes the run game as they gear up for a high-stakes playoff push.
Bottom Line
Frank Ragnow’s three-word explanation — “loves the game” — may be simple, but the impact of his return is massive. The Lions gain leadership, experience, and top-tier talent at a moment when their postseason hopes depend on it.
