By Moses Joshua 
Detroit clarifies the timeline for its returning All-Pro center after a stunning midseason twist
The Detroit Lions entered Thanksgiving week with an unexpected jolt of optimism — and just as quickly, a dose of reality. Frank Ragnow’s sudden decision to un-retire sent shockwaves through the fanbase and the NFL at large, but Detroit has now provided clarity on when the star center will actually be ready to take the field again.
A Stunning Return, but Not an Immediate One
Ragnow’s announcement came out of nowhere, a welcome surprise for a Lions team battling injuries along the interior offensive line. As ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported, the 29-year-old All-Pro is officially back with the team after stepping away this offseason, a move that left Detroit scrambling for stability at a critical position.
But fans hoping for a fairytale return in time for Thanksgiving were quickly brought back to earth. Despite enthusiasm inside the building, Ragnow won’t be suiting up against the Green Bay Packers.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport explained that Ragnow is “ready to go sooner rather than later,” but emphasized that a ramp-up period is necessary — and unavoidable — after months away from the game. Returning to the trenches, especially at center, requires conditioning, timing, and chemistry that can’t be formed overnight.
Why Ragnow Can’t Play Yet
Detroit prepares for Green Bay with backups at center
Ragnow faces two major hurdles in rejoining the starting lineup:
- Physical Reacclimation — Even elite players need gradual progression back to game shape, and the Lions don’t intend to rush him into action.
- Chemistry with Jared Goff — Snapping rhythm, protection calls, and communication must be reestablished before he can anchor the offense again.
As head coach Dan Campbell adjusts to his expanded responsibilities following Ben Johnson’s departure, Ragnow also has to familiarize himself with new nuances of the offensive system.
For Thanksgiving, Detroit will rely on Trystan Colon or Kingsley Eguakun to handle duties at center — a continuation of the patchwork approach they’ve been forced to deploy since injuries piled up with Christian Mahogany and Graham Glasgow, the latter now sidelined as well.
When Will Ragnow Actually Return?
A critical NFC stretch awaits Detroit
While he won’t be available for Week 13, Ragnow’s comeback is set to align with a pivotal run of NFC matchups. Detroit faces the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Rams, and Minnesota Vikings in three of their next five games — contests that carry major playoff implications.
According to Schefter, the target date is Week 15, when the Lions travel to face Matthew Stafford and the top-seeded Rams. Los Angeles has been dominant this season, and Detroit believes Ragnow’s presence could significantly strengthen their pass protection and overall offensive cohesion.
Once Glasgow returns from injury, the Lions could finally field the guard–center–guard trio they envisioned long before training camp. For a team with postseason aspirations, that stabilization may arrive just in time.
Patience Today, Payoff Tomorrow
Ragnow’s retirement created a void Detroit has struggled to fill — and his return offers a chance to fix that issue at last. The Lions won’t rush him, but they also recognize what his eventual presence could mean for a playoff push.
Detroit fans may need to wait a couple more weeks, but the payoff could be exactly what the team needs down the stretch.