Detroit Lions C Frank Ragnow contemplating future
Detroit Lions Pro Bowl center, Frank Ragnow, faces a significant offseason as he deliberates his future in the wake of multiple injuries sustained during the season. Ragnow’s situation is critical for both himself and the Lions, as his decision will have substantial implications on his career and the team’s offensive line stability.

Why it Matters
This development is particularly significant given Ragnow’s integral role in the Lions’ offensive strategy and his reputation as one of the NFL’s premier centers. His contemplation of the future amidst health concerns highlights the physical toll of professional football and the difficult choices players often face.
What did Ragnow Say?
Ragnow is at a crossroads as he considers the future of his career following a challenging season marked by injuries. Despite enduring knee and ankle sprains, as well as recurring toe and back issues, Ragnow remarkably played every offensive snap in the Lions’ NFC Championship game loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Post-season, he finds himself in a reflective state, needing to evaluate his health thoroughly. His priority is not only his performance on the field but also his well-being as a husband and father.
From Detroit Free Press:
“I got to figure everything out,” Ragnow said. “We landed at 5 a.m. (after the 49ers game) and now I’m just trying to process everything and take a look at my body and my MRIs and figure everything out.”
He said he’s going to “take some time” this offseason to figure out his health.
“It takes a toll on you,” Ragnow said. “It really takes a toll on you, so I need to find a way to get back to Frank and I don’t regret any of this at all, but it weighs on you and I’m just going to take some time and really figure everything out to make sure that I’m feeling good, not only for me the football player but for me to be the best husband and best father and everything with that as well.”
Ragnow’s consideration of potential surgeries and the ensuing recovery process underscores the physical demands and personal sacrifices inherent in professional football. His decision will profoundly impact both his life and the Detroit Lions’ offensive lineup.

TL;DR (too long didn’t read)
- Injury Challenges: Ragnow played through various injuries this season, including knee and ankle sprains.
- Offseason Deliberation: He plans to assess his health and the potential need for surgeries carefully.
- Personal Priorities: Ragnow emphasizes the importance of his well-being for his family and personal life.
The Bottom Line – A Tough Call for Ragnow
Frank Ragnow’s contemplation of his future post-injuries represents a crucial juncture in his career. His resilience and determination to play through pain have been commendable, yet they come with significant personal costs. The decisions he makes in the coming months will not only affect his trajectory as a professional athlete but also his life beyond the gridiron.
For the Detroit Lions, Ragnow’s health and decision hold substantial implications for their offensive strategy and team dynamics. As Ragnow navigates this challenging period, his situation serves as a stark reminder of the physical and emotional toll professional sports can take on athletes.