Why Detroit Lions Star Frank Ragnow Is Suddenly Trending: Contract Update, Injury Recovery & What It Means for 2025 Season

Detroit Lions All-Pro center Frank Ragnow shocked the NFL on Monday by announcing his retirement after seven seasons in Detroit. Why Frank Ragnow Is Stepping Away In an emotional video posted to Instagram, the four-time Pro Bowler cited lingering foot and groin injuries and a desire to “walk without pain” once his playing days are over. Ragnow, 29, missed time in 2021 with a severe turf-toe injury and has battled core-muscle issues ever since. “My body is telling me it’s time,” he said. Career at a Glance • Drafted 20th overall in 2018 out of Arkansas • Started 99 of 100 possible games, earning All-Pro honors twice • Helped Detroit post back-to-back top-five rushing offenses in 2023 and 2024 Cap and Contract Fallout Because the move comes after June 1, Detroit saves roughly $9.5 million in 2025 cap space but must absorb $6.3 million in dead money spread over two seasons. Who Replaces the Anchor in the Middle? General manager Brad Holmes can look in-house to veteran Graham Glasgow or 2025 third-round pick Tate Ratledge, but early buzz says the club could explore a trade before training camp. Offensive line continuity has been a cornerstone of head coach Dan Campbell’s bruising identity, making the decision at center a top priority. League-Wide Ripple Effect Ragnow’s retirement removes one of the game’s premier interior blockers from a conference loaded with elite pass rushers. Expect Detroit to adjust its protection schemes for quarterback Jared Goff while reinforcing depth along the interior offensive line. Bottom Line Frank Ragnow leaves the NFL at the peak of his powers, prioritizing long-term health over another lucrative contract extension. His sudden departure reshapes the Detroit Lions’ 2025 outlook and sends one of the league’s most reliable centers into early retirement, creating an unexpected storyline that will dominate offseason chatter in Motown and beyond.