Frank Ragnow Comes Out of Retirement to Rejoin Detroit Lions for Playoff Push

DETROIT, Mich. — November 26, 2025 — The Detroit Lions have received a significant boost to their offensive line as four-time Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow is coming out of retirement to rejoin the team, according to multiple reports. The Lions appeared to confirm the news by posting a photo of Ragnow running out of the tunnel on social media.

Ragnow, 29, had abruptly retired in June 2025, citing health concerns. In a social media post at the time, he explained that although he had tried to convince himself he was ready to play, he ultimately needed to prioritize his health. He expressed gratitude toward the Lions organization and fans, calling his retirement one of the hardest decisions of his life.

The center has spent his entire seven-year NFL career with the Lions after being selected in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Following the 2021 season, Lions general manager Brad Holmes signed Ragnow to a four-year, $54 million contract, making him the highest-paid center in the league at that time. Despite battling injuries, Ragnow remained one of the top players at his position and earned consecutive Pro Bowl selections after signing the contract.

His contract runs through the 2026 season, and it remains in effect upon his return. According to ESPN, players on the reserve-retired list must be reinstated before the team’s Week 13 game to be eligible to play that season. With the Lions scheduled to play on Thanksgiving against the Green Bay Packers, Wednesday was the final day for Ragnow’s return to be processed.

Ragnow’s return is expected to strengthen the Lions’ offensive line as they push toward the playoffs this season.