By Moses Joshua 
Ragnow’s departure shakes up Detroit’s offensive front as rookie Tate Ratledge eyes a massive opportunity
A Stunning Departure Creates a Crucial Void
As the Detroit Lions ramp up preparations for the next phase of OTAs and mandatory minicamp, they were rocked by unexpected news: longtime anchor of the offensive line, Frank Ragnow, has announced his retirement. The four-time Pro Bowler and one of the league’s most respected centers made the emotional decision public via Instagram on Monday, citing years of battling through injuries.
For Detroit, Ragnow’s absence is a seismic loss. His leadership, consistency, and physicality at the heart of the offensive line were integral to the team’s recent success. But as the Lions look to maintain momentum heading into a pivotal 2025 campaign, the focus now shifts from loss to opportunity—particularly for one highly touted rookie.
Tate Ratledge: The Rookie With a Golden Opportunity
Enter Tate Ratledge, Detroit’s second-round pick out of Georgia, who is suddenly the frontrunner to fill Ragnow’s massive shoes. While Ratledge built his college résumé at right guard, not center, he’s been cross-training at both spots since joining the team and has already taken first-team reps during OTAs.
“Ratledge has the tools,” an unnamed Lions source reportedly noted during rookie minicamp. “He’s strong, smart, and plays with that edge we need inside. He just needs reps.”
Though Ratledge lacks game experience at center, his blend of championship pedigree and physicality has quickly drawn praise from the coaching staff. The Lions didn’t spend a Day 2 pick on him by accident—he was brought in to contribute early, and now that opportunity may arrive sooner than anyone anticipated.
Glasgow in the Mix, But Nothing Is Set in Stone
Veteran Graham Glasgow—a trusted, versatile lineman with over 2,000 NFL snaps at center—is also in contention for the role. If Glasgow slides inside, it could allow Ratledge to start at his natural position at right guard, with third-year lineman Christian Mahogany entering the fold to compete for that open spot.
This shuffle makes one thing clear: the Lions are in evaluation mode, and flexibility across the line will be key to keeping the unit strong despite Ragnow’s departure.
A Group Effort to Replace a Star
Head coach Dan Campbell and offensive line coach Hank Fraley now face one of the biggest challenges of the offseason—maintaining elite-level performance up front without the player who helped define it. While no one player can fully replace Ragnow, the Lions are betting on a collective step forward.
“This isn’t just about one guy stepping in,” a team insider said. “It’s about the entire room elevating their play.”
As camp progresses and preseason battles heat up, all eyes will be on Ratledge. Can the rookie rise to the occasion and take command at center? Or will experience win out in the form of Glasgow?
One thing is certain: the path to protecting Jared Goff and fueling Detroit’s playoff push now runs through a reimagined offensive line—and a rookie with everything to prove.