Frank Ragnow, a four-time Pro Bowl center, has ended his short-lived retirement and is returning to the Detroit Lions, providing a significant boost to the team’s offensive line as they push for a playoff spot.
The announcement came on November 26, 2025, when the Lions reinstated Ragnow from the reserve/retired list, just before the 4 p.m. deadline for him to be eligible to play this season. Sources confirmed that Ragnow decided to return because he “loves the game,” and his charitable foundation, the Rags Remembered Foundation, posted on social media about his decision to continue his journey on the field while maintaining his philanthropic work.
Ragnow initially retired in June 2025 after seven NFL seasons, citing the need to listen to his body after battling multiple injuries, including a chronic toe problem and a fractured throat in 2021. At the time, he expressed deep gratitude to the Lions organization and fans, calling it one of the hardest decisions of his life, but now he feels physically and mentally prepared to contribute again to the team.
Without Ragnow, the Lions have struggled on their offensive line, scoring about four points per game fewer than last season and putting quarterback Jared Goff on pace for a career-high 36 sacks. Veteran Graham Glasgow moved from left guard to center to replace Ragnow but has been one of the lowest-graded centers this season by Pro Football Focus and is currently ruled out for the Thanksgiving game with a knee injury.
The Lions had a narrow window to activate Ragnow from the reserve/retired list, and he is now on the exempt/commissioner permission list. His contract, which had two years remaining, will be reinstated, with Ragnow scheduled to make $9.15 million in base salary this fall. This move comes as the Lions hold a 7-4 record and aim to secure a spot in the NFC playoff bracket.
Ragnow’s first potential game back could be next Thursday against the Dallas Cowboys, but sources indicate a return that quickly is unlikely, making the December 14 game against the Los Angeles Rams a more probable target. This timeline allows him to gradually regain playing shape after nearly six months away from the game, though his exact readiness will depend on his conditioning and health assessments.
The return of Ragnow is expected to address key issues in the Lions’ offensive line, which has faced communication and consistency problems this season. As a three-time second-team All-Pro, his experience and skill should stabilize the unit, improve run blocking, and provide better protection for Goff, enhancing the team’s overall offensive efficiency during the critical stretch of the regular season.
Coach Dan Campbell had previously stated that he didn’t expect Ragnow to return, remarking that “that ship has sailed,” but the team’s social media hinted at the move with a cryptic photo hours before the official announcement. This surprise development underscores Ragnow’s value and could significantly impact the Lions’ postseason chances, offering renewed hope for a deep playoff run.
