Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell knows things will be different without star center Frank Ragnow, but he has a plan to face this new stage.
Ragnow, after seven seasons in the NFL, announced his retirement at age 29 via social media on Monday, leaving the Lions with the task of reorganizing their offense.The technical team is adapting quickly to the situation.
He will be greatly missed, but the train keeps moving. And the next man must be ready. We will be ready for camp.The team has several options to fill the position. Campbell trusts the players who have been recruited and the free agents incorporated, including Kingsley Eguakun.
The Lions could evaluate different options during training camp before making a final decision. They could give Eguakun a chance, or try out rookies Tate Ratledge and Miles Frazier. They also have veteran Graham Glasgow, who can play both guard and center. Ratledge was seen taking reps with the first team in Thursday’s practice, the last day of the Lions’ offseason program before training camp in July, although several players were limited or absent.In addition, Detroit signed veteran Trystan Colon as a free agent this week, adding depth to the offensive line. Colon started seven games with the Arizona Cardinals last season.
Without Ragnow and Kevin Zeitler, who signed with the Tennessee Titans, the Lions will have to replace 40% of a starting offensive line that was on the field for the second-most points and touchdowns of any five-man unit in the NFL last season.
It’s different knowing Frank is no longer here. We have to acknowledge it and we need to grow. We need to develop quickly and that’s why offensive line coach Hank Fraley is in that room. He’s done a great job developing talent and he’s going to prepare these guys, whoever they may be.
Dan Campbell
Although Campbell, the organization, and several teammates knew Ragnow was considering retirement, it wasn’t easy to accept the departure of such an important player on the offensive line, especially after being recognized as an All-Pro in 2024, in a season where the team achieved 15 victories.
Ragnow, who suffered multiple injuries throughout his career, including a partial pectoral tear, a fractured throat, and persistent toe issues, made the decision to retire. Amon-Ra St. Brown, Lions wide receiver, expressed his pride and support for Ragnow.St. Brown highlighted the respect Ragnow has earned in the locker room for his work ethic and dedication. Ragnow was one of two centers selected for the Pro Bowl in each of the last three seasons, along with Creed Humphrey of Kansas City.
Ragnow played 16 games last season, missing only Week 4 against the Seattle Seahawks due to a partial pectoral tear.When you know it’s your time, it’s the right time because it’s not fair to him or his teammates or anyone else. Therefore, I greatly respect his decision. It’s not easy to do. But he knows himself and I will always respect that.
Dan Campbell
