### Detroit Lions' Four-Time Pro Bowler Frank Ragnow Announces Retirement

Detroit Lions center Frank Ragnow shared the surprising news of his retirement from the NFL on social media on Monday. Ragnow, who has been selected to the Pro Bowl four times during his career, expressed the difficulty of his decision in an Instagram post.

"These past couple of months have been very trying as I've come to the realization that my football journey is ending and I'm officially retiring from the NFL," Ragnow wrote. He disclosed that despite his efforts to remain in good health, his body has signaled it's time to prioritize his own well-being and his family’s future. "I have given this team everything I have and I thought I had more to give, but the reality is I simply don't," he added.

The 29-year-old's career was marked by both resilience and accolades. Last season, Ragnow played 16 games, missing only one Week 4 game against Seattle due to a partially torn pectoral muscle. His tenacity earned him a third consecutive Pro Bowl selection. Having joined the NFL as a first-round draft pick by the Lions in 2018, Ragnow accumulated notable achievements including second-team All-Pro honors in 2020, 2023, and 2024, and started in all 96 career games he played.

Ragnow's career was also marked by persistent struggles with serious toe injuries. In 2021, he missed 13 games owing to what he described as "the most severe degree of turf toe." The following year brought another injury to the same toe, compelling him to play through significant pain in what he called one of the toughest years of his career. He revealed that by 2023, the injury had deteriorated to a point where surgery was no longer a viable solution.

Through his retirement announcement, Ragnow conveyed heartfelt gratitude towards the Detroit Lions organization and its fans. "The Lions organization has been absolutely incredible throughout this process," he praised. "It was an absolute honor going to battle for you all."

As Ragnow steps away from professional football, his impactful career and dedication to the sport leave a lasting legacy in the hearts of Lions fans and the team.