The Detroit Lions are facing more than just changes to their coaching staff this offseason. As they regroup from a 15-win season and push toward that elusive first Super Bowl, two veteran players may be sending a message about their contracts — and it’s starting to get noticeable.
We already knew linebacker Alex Anzalone was skipping OTAs while possibly eyeing a new deal. Now, it looks like four-time Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow is following suit.
Ragnow was a no-show at the team’s voluntary workouts this week, and according to the Detroit Free Press, it’s not just about rest. He’s reportedly unhappy with the contract extension he signed back in 2021 — the one that, at the time, made him the highest-paid center in the league. Fast forward to 2025, and he’s now fourth on the list in terms of average annual value, set to make $9.15 million this fall with a $14 million cap hit next year.
Meanwhile, centers like Creed Humphrey are now commanding $18 million per year.
Though these practices are optional, it’s worth noting that Ragnow and Anzalone were the only Lions who didn’t show. Anzalone is entering the final year of his deal, carrying a $7.2 million cap hit in 2025. Ragnow, on the other hand, still has two years left but clearly feels it’s time to revisit the numbers.
He’s coming off three straight Pro Bowl seasons and has been a rock on Detroit’s offensive line. From his perspective, he’s earned a new deal. Whether the Lions agree — and how far this standoff might go — is the big question now.
It’s something to watch as Detroit looks to stay focused amid rising expectations and growing contract tension behind the scenes.