Frank Ragnow, center for the Detroit Lions, states succinctly that he is not retiring.
The announcement made by Lions center Frank Ragnow that he will not be retiring this summer is hardly shocking.
The Detroit Lions did not secure any awards at NFL Honors on Thursday night, but they did receive a significant victory. Center Frank Ragnow, as reported by Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, unequivocally clarified his intentions for the 2024 season.
Ragnow emphatically stated, “I’m not retiring,” and elaborated on his plans, noting, “I just need a few weeks to get healthy. I guess my typical offseason routine is kind of getting right back into it, but I think as I’m getting older, I need to understand that sometimes maybe less is more. And I just need some time to make sure I’m healthy, and then we’ll get rolling again.”
Reflecting on the injuries he played through during the season, especially after the NFC Championship Game loss to the San Francisco 49ers, Ragnow expressed the need to assess his body and MRIs in the aftermath. Acknowledging the toll such challenges take, he emphasized the importance of taking time to prioritize not only his well-being as a football player but also as a husband and father.
While Lions general manager Brad Holmes didn’t entirely dismiss the possibility of Ragnow retiring during his season-ending press conference, it seems unlikely, given Ragnow’s need for space to process the season and his commitment to rest and recovery.
Despite uncertainties on the offensive line for the Lions this offseason, particularly with three top guards heading for free agency, Ragnow’s declaration dispels any concerns about his potential retirement, providing reassurance for the team moving forward.
