The Detroit Lions just lost one of their cornerstones. Star center Frank Ragnow announced his retirement on Monday at just 29 years old — and while some inside the organization saw it coming, fans across the country were hit hard by the news.
For years, Ragnow was the heart of the Lions’ offensive line — a four-time Pro Bowler who battled through injury after injury and still showed up as one of the toughest, most reliable players on the field. Under head coach Dan Campbell and O-line coach Hank Fraley, Ragnow helped turn the Lions’ front into one of the best in the league.
After the announcement, teammate and close friend Graham Glasgow — a fellow lineman and former Michigan standout — posted a heartfelt tribute on X that quickly caught fire online.
“Congrats to one of my all-time favorite teammates and a good friend,” Glasgow wrote. “Best center I’ve ever seen play the game. Hell of a career.”
The love didn’t stop there. Fans poured into the comments to send their own messages:
* “It’s your time now big bro.”
* “You’re up, Graham!”
* “Thanks for everything, Frank.”
* “Let’s get the O-line ready — we’ve got a Super Bowl to win.”
Others kept it simple: “Legend.” “Hall of Fame.”
Ragnow, originally from Victoria, Minnesota, was drafted 20th overall by Detroit in 2018. From day one, he was a fighter — the kind of guy who played through pain without ever making excuses. He gave everything he had to the game, and to the city of Detroit.
In his retirement post on Instagram, Ragnow didn’t sugarcoat how tough this decision was:
“These past couple of months have been very trying as I’ve come to the realization that my football journey is ending,” he wrote. “I’ve tried to convince myself that I’m feeling good, but I’m not. It’s time to prioritize my health and my family’s future.”
And just like that, one of the Lions’ toughest warriors hangs up his cleats — not with a dramatic farewell, but with the same honesty and heart he played with every single snap.
Lions Line Mate’s Message for Frank Ragnow Hits Right in the Feels
