Ragnow Out: Lions Center Will Not Play This Season Due to Injury

Frank Ragnow will not play with the Lions after failing the physical exam

DETROIT – Four-time Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow will not play for the Lions this season after failing to pass his physical, the team announced Saturday. Ragnow, who was planning to come out of retirement, reported to the facilities on Friday. However, the Detroit medical team revealed that he was suffering from a grade 3 hamstring strain, which would prevent him from playing.

“Frank has always prioritized the team and is a true warrior,” the team stated in a statement. “He will always be a Lion.”

Ragnow, 29, announced his retirement in June after seven seasons in the NFL, during which he battled multiple injuries. The Lions still retain Ragnow’s contractual rights through the 2026 season. Coach Dan Campbell was initially “excited” about the possibility of Ragnow’s return, but his future for 2026 has not been discussed. Ragnow had revealed that he was dealing with a hamstring issue during conversations, but they didn’t know the severity of the injury until the final physical exam.

“Of course, we are disappointed because Frank is a great guy and a great teammate, and he is a productive player, but at the same time he is also injured,” Campbell told reporters via video call on Friday. “So, man, you quickly forget about that and you know what it is, and he’s not going to play.”