The Detroit Lions, a franchise that has recently shed its long-held identity as an NFL punching bag, are now entering a new phase: contending for Super Bowls. Under the dynamic leadership of head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes, they have transformed into a gritty, resilient team embodying the spirit of their city. However, even the most well-run organizations face unexpected challenges, and for the Lions, a significant headache has emerged just weeks before the start of training camp, courtesy of a former star: Frank Ragnow’s abrupt retirement.
While the prompt implies a “former Lions star” causing a “headache,” the recent news (as of mid-June 2025) points directly to Frank Ragnow, the team’s stalwart Pro Bowl center, who shockingly announced his retirement on June 2nd, 2025. This situation is indeed “awful” for the Lions, as it creates an unforeseen and significant void on their offensive line, a unit that has been the bedrock of their offensive success.
Frank Ragnow was not just a former star; he was the star of the Lions’ offensive line, widely regarded as one of the very best centers in the entire NFL. In his seven-year career, he earned four Pro Bowl selections and three second-team All-Pro honors, a testament to his consistent elite performance. His departure leaves a massive hole in a critical position, especially for a team that prioritizes running the ball and protecting quarterback Jared Goff.
Here’s why his retirement is such a major headache for the Lions:
- Leadership and Stability: Ragnow was more than just a talented blocker; he was the undisputed leader of the offensive line. He made protection calls, helped solidify blocking schemes, and was a calming, veteran presence for the entire offense. His absence creates a leadership vacuum that will be challenging to fill, particularly for a unit that thrives on cohesion and communication.
- Unforeseen Timing: The timing of Ragnow’s decision, just weeks before training camp, is particularly problematic. While GM Brad Holmes seemingly had some foresight by drafting Tate Ratledge, an interior offensive lineman from Georgia, in the second round, the ideal scenario would have been for Ratledge to learn and develop behind Ragnow for a year, not be thrust into a starting role immediately. The suddenness of the retirement leaves less time for the coaching staff to fully assess options and prepare for this significant change.
- Hole at a Critical Position: Center is arguably the most cerebral position on the offensive line. The center is responsible for snapping the ball, calling out protections, and adjusting blocking assignments pre-snap. Losing an elite talent and mind like Ragnow requires a rapid acceleration of development for his replacement.
- Compounding Offensive Line Issues: The Lions already lost starting right guard Kevin Zeitler in free agency this offseason. Now, with Ragnow’s retirement, they have two significant holes to fill on the interior offensive line. While they have strong tackles in Penei Sewell and Taylor Decker, the interior stability is now a major question mark. This situation shifts from having one interior spot to battle for to potentially three (if Graham Glasgow moves to center, creating a hole at left guard, or if a rookie is thrust into the center spot).
- Impact on Run Game and Pass Protection: The Lions’ identity under Dan Campbell is built on a dominant run game. Ragnow’s ability to create lanes for Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery was crucial. His absence could impact the effectiveness of their ground attack. Furthermore, his elite pass protection was vital for Jared Goff, who thrives when he has a clean pocket. Any drop-off in interior protection could put more pressure on Goff and disrupt the timing of the passing game.
Despite the “awful situation,” the Lions’ front office and coaching staff are renowned for their proactive and intelligent approach.
- Tate Ratledge’s Opportunity: The drafting of Tate Ratledge looks incredibly prescient now. Ratledge played guard at Georgia but was immediately cross-trained at center during May’s rookie minicamp, suggesting the Lions were at least preparing for contingencies, if not explicitly aware of Ragnow’s leaning towards retirement. Ratledge, a strong and physical player, will now have a direct path to competing for the starting center role. While there could be “growing pains” for a rookie, his talent is undeniable.
- Internal Competition at Guard: With Zeitler gone and Ragnow retired, the Lions will rely on internal competition to solidify the interior. Graham Glasgow, a versatile veteran, has the inside track to start at right guard. The battle for the remaining guard spot (likely left guard, depending on how they align) will involve players like Christian Mahogany and Miles Fraizer, who will now have expanded opportunities in training camp.
- Coaching Expertise: The Lions’ offensive line coach, Hank Fraley, is highly regarded as one of the best in the NFL. His ability to develop talent and maximize his players’ potential will be put to the ultimate test this season. If any coaching staff can quickly assemble a cohesive and effective offensive line unit, it’s this one.
- Brad Holmes’ Preparedness: General Manager Brad Holmes has consistently demonstrated a knack for finding value in the draft and making shrewd roster moves. While Ragnow’s retirement was a surprise to the public, Holmes’ actions (like drafting Ratledge) suggest he was prepared for various scenarios. It wouldn’t be out of character for him to make another strategic move if the internal options don’t fully pan out during training camp.
The retirement of Frank Ragnow is undoubtedly a major headache for the Detroit Lions, shifting significant focus to the offensive line just as they prepare for a highly anticipated 2025 season. It forces the team to accelerate the development of young players and potentially re-evaluate their lineup.
However, the Lions have built their success on overcoming adversity and embracing the “next man up” mentality. Their culture, leadership, and coaching stability give them a strong foundation to weather this storm. The performance of the offensive line in training camp and throughout the early part of the season will be a critical storyline to watch. If they can quickly establish continuity and effective play on the interior, the Lions’ Super Bowl aspirations will remain firmly intact. If not, this “awful situation” could indeed prove to be a significant obstacle in their quest for a championship.
