While Detroit Lions All-Pro center Frank Ragnow attempted a comeback to the club this season just months after announcing his retirement, that comeback goal ultimately fell short after a physical examination revealed a Grade 3 hamstring strain.

Fans were naturally excited about the possibility of seeing Ragnow return to the club after announcing his retirement after seven seasons for the Lions, but that goal went for naught.

“Frank Ragnow reported to our facility yesterday and went through the normal process of meetings,” the Lions said in a statement announcing the disappointing setback. “Unfortunately, during the routine meeting with our medical team, Frank failed his physical. The medical exam revealed a Grade 3 hamstring strain that will keep him from participating for the remainder of the regular season.

For that reason, Frank will not be rejoining the Lions. Frank has always been a team-first guy and is a true warrior. He will forever be a Lion.”

But the news wasn’t positive for fans who wanted to see Ragnow consider an offseason of physical rehabilitation for a potential return in 2026.

While making his weekly radio appearance on 97.1 The Ticket, Lions quarterback Jared Goff said that he doesn’t anticipate that a Ragnow return in 2026 was a possibility.

“No, I don’t think that’s in the cards at all,” Goff said of Ragnow playing in 2026.

“Of course I’ll talk to Frank. I just don’t think his interest level is there,” he continued.
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Frank Ragnow Attempted A Return To The Detroit Lions But Fell Short

Ragnow, who was Detroit’s first round pick (20th overall) in the 2018 NFL Draft, started 96 games for the Lions during his NFL career, during which he earned four Pro Bowl appearances following his collegiate career at Arkansas.

He also earned three second-team All-Pro selections with the team.

In 2021, he became the highest-paid center in the NFL at the time with a four-year, $54 million extension.

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Lions Coach Dan Campbell May Utilize Tate Ratledge At Center Next Season

Tate Ratlege, the Lions’ second round pick (57th overall), initially began Training Camp as Detroit’s center before eventually pivoting to right guard, and ultimately played more offensive snaps than any other player.

“There’s been growth, and that’s really what you want out of your rookies,” said Campbell. “You want to feel like that there has been growth taking place. And being between Graham (Glasgow) for most of the year, and (Penei) Sewell has helped. But there’s a ton of growth left and he’s going to have to take another step next year.

“Preferably this next game coming up, take another baby step here. But he’s going to need to take another step, which he’s got that and he’s capable of.”

Campbell also appeared to indicate a “wait and see” style plan for Ratledge moving forward.

“I know that we were — we felt like he could be a center and that’s still not off the table,” Campbell said. “We watched him at guard; he played right guard in college. He’s a good athlete. He’s a big man. He can move. So, we’ll find out. I mean, we’ll find out.”
Following Ragnow’s retirement, the Lions also moved Graham Glasgow from guard to center.