Prioritizing his long-term health and his family's future, Ragnow made this impactful announcement on Monday.

Ragnow's career, beginning in 2018 when he was drafted 20th overall, saw him transition from left guard to center by 2019. This change allowed him to establish himself as one of the NFL's most dependable interior linemen. The 29-year-old departs with an impressive resume, including four Pro Bowl selections and three second-team All-Pro honors.

Throughout his career, Ragnow played 6,617 snaps and achieved a consistent performance, with grading above 74.0 in six out of seven seasons. His only dip below this threshold was during his rookie year. Notably, his 2023 season was his most outstanding, finishing with a position-best 88.8 overall grade and anchoring a Detroit ground game that ranked top-three in crucial metrics like yards per rush and expected points added per play.

Ragnow's excellence was particularly highlighted in run-blocking scenarios, where he boasted grades above 78.0 in all but his rookie season. His versatility and effectiveness extended across various blocking schemes, with standout grades on outside zone and man-blocking snaps. In fact, his run-blocking prowess was documented as elite, ranking in the 97th percentile for gap runs and 94th percentile for zone concepts.

As a pass-blocker, Ragnow maintained reliability, never earning lower than a 65.8 grade after his initial season. His statistics reflect this consistency, allowing only six sacks and 88 total pressures over 3,174 pass-blocking snaps as a center. His ability to maintain performance under pressure was affirmed by his ranking above the 80th percentile in various stability metrics for offensive linemen.

Ragnow's comprehensive skill set and contribution to the team were underscored by his placement in the top three centers for Wins Above Replacement (WAR) from 2019 to 2024, generating 1.76 wins, only trailing Kansas City's Creed Humphrey and Eagles' Jason Kelce. His 2023 season culminated in an All-Pro first-team selection and a position on the prestigious PFF101 list, signifying his elite status within the sport.

As Ragnow retires, the Detroit Lions face a significant transition. The team has already initiated cross-training for rookie Tate Ratledge at center, though he has no in-game experience at the position from his college tenure at Georgia. Nonetheless, Ratledge's profile suggests a promising adaptation, having performed well in various blocking schemes.

The Lions are entering a challenging period with high expectations and a tough schedule ahead, including formidable opponents from the AFC North, NFC East, and their own division. Despite strong roster elements, changes within the coaching staff and interior offensive line pose questions about their potential performance. Betting analysts have noted these uncertainties, advising caution in expectations for the upcoming season.

Frank Ragnow's retirement marks the end of an era for the Detroit Lions, and his absence will undoubtedly be felt both on and off the field. The team will now look to new and existing talent to uphold the standard of excellence he established.