Former Detroit Lions Coaches and Teammates Reflect on Center Frank Ragnow’s Retirement, Celebrate His Grit, Loyalty, and Leadership

When Frank Ragnow announced his retirement from the NFL, it marked the end of an era for the Detroit Lions. The former All-Pro center, who anchored the offensive line with strength and poise, leaves behind a legacy defined by toughness, humility, and leadership. As news of his retirement broke, several former coaches, teammates, and staff members shared heartfelt tributes and reflections on Ragnow’s career and what he meant to the Lions organization.

Ragnow, drafted in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft by Detroit, quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the offensive line. Despite battling injuries throughout his career, the Arkansas product remained a constant force on the field and a leader in the locker room. Former offensive line coach Hank Fraley, who spent several seasons working closely with Ragnow, called him the “heartbeat of the offensive unit.”

“Frank showed up every day with the mindset that nothing would stop him from doing his job,” Fraley said. “He was banged up more than people realized, but he never used that as an excuse. He played through pain, and he gave everything for this team. That’s rare, and that’s something every young lineman should try to emulate.”

It’s a sentiment echoed by former Lions head coach Dan Campbell, who grew visibly emotional when discussing Ragnow during a recent interview. “Frank was a guy you could always count on,” Campbell said. “He was a warrior. Every week, he lined up and battled the best defensive linemen in the world and made it look easy. But more than that, he cared. He cared about his teammates. He cared about this city. That’s what made him special.”

Ragnow’s relationship with the city of Detroit ran deep. Known for his quiet demeanor and no-nonsense approach, he connected with fans not through flashy statements or attention-seeking behavior, but through his consistent, blue-collar work ethic that mirrored the spirit of the city he represented. Former general manager Bob Quinn, who drafted Ragnow, noted that the decision to take him in the first round was one of the easiest calls he ever made.

“I remember watching Frank’s film at Arkansas and thinking, ‘That’s a guy who’s going to play a decade in the NFL,’” Quinn said. “He was technically sound, incredibly smart, and mean in the best possible way on the field. He didn’t talk a lot, but when he did, guys listened. You want those kinds of players in your building.”

Ragnow’s leadership was especially important during the team’s difficult rebuild years. While the Lions struggled in the standings, Ragnow remained a constant, showing up every day with the same fire and focus. Quarterback Jared Goff, who arrived in Detroit in 2021, credited Ragnow with helping him acclimate quickly and feel confident behind center.

“Having Frank in front of me was a huge comfort,” Goff said. “You knew he had control of the line, and you knew he was going to fight for every inch. But more than that, he was just a great teammate. He welcomed me with open arms when I got here, and that meant a lot. You don’t replace guys like that easily.”

One of Ragnow’s most memorable stretches came during the 2020 season, when he played through a fractured throat — a rare and painful injury that would sideline most players for weeks. Not only did Ragnow continue to play, he did so at a high level, earning the respect of coaches and players across the league. Former teammate Taylor Decker recalled that moment as emblematic of who Ragnow was.

“He could barely speak, but he didn’t want to come off the field,” Decker said. “That’s Frank in a nutshell. Tough, committed, and selfless. I’ve had the honor of playing next to him for years, and I’ve never seen a guy pour more into the game.”

For longtime Lions fans, Ragnow became a symbol of resilience and dedication. While Detroit experienced multiple coaching changes and roster overhauls, he remained a stabilizing presence. Even during years when the team wasn’t winning, Ragnow’s play never dipped. His Pro Bowl and All-Pro nods were well-earned, and his teammates knew just how vital he was to their success — even if he didn’t always receive national attention.

“He didn’t seek the spotlight, but he absolutely deserved it,” said former Lions assistant and current NFL offensive line coach Jeff Davidson. “Frank was one of the most fundamentally sound and technically gifted centers I’ve ever worked with. And he cared. He cared about the craft. He cared about his teammates. He took pride in his work.”

After battling chronic foot and toe issues over the past few seasons, Ragnow’s decision to retire was not entirely unexpected. He had spoken publicly about the toll the game had taken on his body and hinted at the possibility of stepping away earlier than most players. Still, for many around the league, it was difficult to imagine a Lions offensive line without him.

Former offensive coordinator Anthony Lynn described Ragnow as “a coach’s dream” and someone who made every game plan better simply by being on the field.

“You build your offense around guys like Frank,” Lynn said. “He’s smart, he sees things before they happen, and he communicates like a second quarterback. When your center plays at that level, everything runs smoother. We were lucky to have him.”

While Ragnow’s playing days may be over, those who worked with him believe his impact will be felt in Detroit for years to come. His influence on younger linemen, such as Penei Sewell and Jonah Jackson, helped shape the current identity of the offensive line — one built on toughness, accountability, and pride. Lions assistant line coach Steve Oliver said that Ragnow’s leadership helped turn the unit into one of the NFL’s best.

“He showed the young guys how to prepare, how to handle adversity, and how to play the game the right way,” Oliver said. “He didn’t have to be loud or flashy. He just did his job — every single snap. That kind of example sets a standard.”

As Ragnow steps away from the game, many hope he will remain involved in football in some capacity. Whether that means coaching, mentoring, or simply enjoying a well-earned retirement is up to him. But whatever he chooses, those who know him best believe he’ll succeed.

“I know he’ll thrive in whatever he does next,” Fraley added. “Because he’s just that kind of person. He gives everything he has, no matter the role. And I hope he knows just how much he meant to all of us.”

Ragnow released a statement thanking fans, coaches, teammates, and the city of Detroit, saying he was “grateful beyond words” for the opportunity to play in the NFL. True to his style, the statement was humble and straightforward. He expressed appreciation for the Lions’ medical staff, trainers, and coaches who helped him push through the difficult moments, and he spoke of the lifelong friendships he formed in the locker room.

“I gave everything I had to this game and this city,” Ragnow wrote. “And while it’s time to step away, I’ll always carry these memories with me.”

For many in Detroit, the feeling is mutual. Frank Ragnow didn’t just play center for the Lions — he embodied everything the franchise hoped to represent during a time of rebuilding and growth. And though he may no longer be snapping the ball on Sundays, his legacy will continue to inspire the next generation of players who walk through the doors of Allen Park.