Frank Ragnow’s decision to hang up his cleats is sending shockwaves through the NFL—and some of his former coaches in Detroit are sharing just how much he meant to the franchise, both on and off the field.
Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer caught up with ex-Lions GM Bob Quinn, head coach Matt Patricia, and offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, who each had plenty to say about Ragnow’s quiet toughness and leadership.
Patricia, who coached the Lions from 2018 to 2020, shared that he and Ragnow still have a tight bond.
“He’s so authentic,” Patricia said. “He’s big and tough like you expect from a lineman, but also sensitive and emotional in a way that connects with people. We went through a lot together.”
Quinn, the GM who drafted Ragnow back in 2018, recalled being sold on him early—even though Ragnow missed the NFL Combine due to injury.
“I watched him in November and knew he was our guy,” Quinn said. “After our interview, we went radio silent—tried to keep him under the radar. He was a clean prospect, no question.”
And Ben Johnson, the man who helped guide the Lions’ offense to new heights, called Ragnow one of the smartest players he’s ever coached.
“Mentally, he was elite. He kept everything sharp up front and let us be creative in the run game,” Johnson explained. “Week in and week out, you knew exactly what you were getting from Frank—and he lifted the whole line with him.”
Ragnow’s retirement doesn’t just leave a gap in the lineup—it leaves a legacy of grit, intelligence, and leadership that’ll be hard to replace. His former coaches made it clear: Frank Ragnow wasn’t just a great player, he was the heart of the offensive line.
Former Lions Staff Get Emotional Reflecting on Frank Ragnow’s Retirement
