Frank Ragnow Retiring: Why the NFL Star Is Stepping Away and What’s Next

By Jason Bolton June 03, 2025 09:15

In a surprising and significant development for the Detroit Lions and the NFL at large, All-Pro center Frank Ragnow announced his retirement at just 29 years old. The news, shared via an emotional Instagram post on June 2, 2025, marks the end of a remarkable seven-season career defined by toughness, consistency, and elite play. Ragnow’s decision to step away from football is rooted primarily in health concerns and a desire to prioritize his well-being and family, underscoring the physical toll the sport exacts even on its brightest stars.

The Toll of Injuries and Physical Strain

Ragnow’s retirement comes after months of reflection and battling lingering injuries. He candidly wrote, “I’ve tried to persuade myself that I’m feeling fine, but I’m not, and it’s time to prioritize my health and my family’s future.” Throughout his career, Ragnow endured multiple injuries, most notably severe toe ailments. In 2021, he missed 13 games due to what he described as “the most severe degree of turf toe,” an injury that can be career-altering for linemen who rely on footwork and leverage. He also suffered a fractured larynx during a game, famously playing through the pain, a testament to his toughness.

Despite managing to play through injuries in 2022, the cumulative effect appears to have influenced his decision. Ragnow’s acknowledgment that he “simply do[es] not” have more to give highlights the brutal reality many NFL players face as their bodies wear down under the sport’s demands.

A Stellar Career Cut Short

Drafted 20th overall in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft out of Arkansas, Ragnow quickly established himself as one of the league’s premier centers. Over seven seasons, he started 96 games and earned four Pro Bowl selections, along with three Second-Team All-Pro honors in the last five seasons. His presence was integral to the Lions’ offensive line, helping Detroit achieve back-to-back NFC North Division titles and the best regular-season record in the NFC in 2024.

Pro Football Focus consistently rated Ragnow as one of the top centers in the league, second only to Kansas City’s Creed Humphrey. His leadership and technique were lauded by coaches and teammates alike, making his sudden retirement a major blow to the Lions’ Super Bowl aspirations.

What’s Next for Ragnow?

While Ragnow’s playing days are over, his future remains full of possibilities. His maturity and football intellect suggest potential roles in coaching, broadcasting, or front-office positions. In his retirement statement, he expressed immense gratitude toward the Lions organization and fans, signaling a lasting connection to the sport and community.

The Lions now face the challenge of replacing a cornerstone of their offensive line. The team’s front office will need to address this gap through the draft, free agency, or internal development. As ESPN analyst Dan Graziano noted, “Losing a player of Ragnow’s caliber at such a young age is a tough pill to swallow, but it also opens the door for new leaders to emerge.”

The Human Side of the Game

Ragnow’s retirement is a poignant reminder of the physical and mental sacrifices NFL players make. His decision to prioritize health over prolonging his career highlights a growing awareness among athletes about long-term well-being. As he put it, “This has been one of the toughest choices of my life,” underscoring the emotional weight behind stepping away from a sport that defined much of his identity.

Frank Ragnow’s retirement at 29 shocks the NFL world but stands as a testament to his self-awareness and courage. His decorated career, marked by resilience and elite performance, leaves a lasting legacy in Detroit and beyond. As the Lions prepare for life without their All-Pro center, fans and analysts alike will remember Ragnow not just for his dominance on the field but for his character and the difficult, health-driven choice to walk away on his own terms.