What Will the Detroit Lions Do at Center without Frank Ragnow?
- Frank Ragnow, the Detroit Lions' All-Pro center and 2018 first-round pick, announced his retirement on Monday after seven seasons in Detroit.
- Ragnow's unexpected retirement, despite having two contract years left and a $14.05 million cap hit, leaves a significant gap at center for the 2025 season.
- The Lions have drafted four offensive linemen in the last two drafts, including second-round pick Tate Ratledge, who has been receiving first-team reps at center in OTAs.
- Offensive line coach Hank Fraley stated Ratledge needs more time to develop at center, while veteran Graham Glasgow, with 40 career starts at center, remains a strong option to fill the role.
- The Lions believe Ratledge's versatility and toughness can help mitigate Ragnow's loss, keeping Detroit competitive and hopeful for a strong 2025 season.
31 Articles
31 Articles

Lions add veteran Trystan Colon to offensive line that lost center Frank Ragnow to retirement
The Detroit Lions have added depth on their depleted offensive line, signing veteran Trystan Colon. Detroit waived/injured cornerback Divaad Wilson on Wednesday to clear a roster spot. The Lions lost their starting center to retirement earlier this week. Four-time Pro…

Could Tate Ratledge play center for Lions? Offensive line analyst weighs in on what it takes
There’s no way around it: All-Pro center Frank Ragnow’s retirement is a significant blow to the Detroit Lions. Ragnow, a first-round draft pick in 2018 who racked up accolades in the middle of Detroit’s vaunted offensive line, is irreplaceable. He’s among the best centers of this generation, and his early exit at 29 years old leaves a massive hole at one of the NFL’s most important positions. But the Lions, eyeing their first Super Bowl in 2025,…
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