Frank Ragnow, the four-time Pro Bowl center who retired in June, has returned to the Detroit Lions to support their playoff push. The Lions confirmed his rejoining with a social media post showing Ragnow running out of the tunnel. Ragnow, 29, had previously retired to prioritize his health, stating that he had given everything to the team, but was now ready to step away from the NFL. His return has been hailed as a major boost to the team’s offense. The Lions are currently third in the NFC North, and Ragnow’s return is expected to help them in their final push for a playoff berth.
Ragnow’s decision to return comes after a significant contract extension with the Lions in 2021, where he was signed to a four-year, $54 million deal, making him the highest-paid center in the NFL at the time. Although Ragnow faced injury issues during his career, he remained one of the top centers in the league. His contract runs through the 2026 season, and with the Lions currently at 7–4, his return could be crucial. However, it is unclear when he will debut in the 2025 season. The Lions are set to play the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving, and Ragnow must be reinstated before the Week 13 game to be eligible to play.
Ragnow’s return is a significant development for the Lions, who have been looking for a boost in their playoff campaign. His decision to come out of retirement highlights his dedication to the team and his belief that he can make a difference. The Lions’ general manager, Brad Holmes, had worked closely with Ragnow to secure his contract, and his return may signal a strategic move to strengthen the team’s offensive line. While the details of Ragnow’s return are still being finalized, the Lions’ fans are hopeful that his presence will give the team an edge in the upcoming games.