TL;DR
- Detroit Lions center Frank Ragnow is coming out of retirement to rejoin the team.
- Ragnow initially retired in June due to health concerns and prioritizing his family's future.
- His return is prompted by his love for the game and improved physical condition.
- Ragnow's potential return to play is targeted for Week 15, possibly December 14th.
The Detroit Lions will be welcoming back center Frank Ragnow in the near future.
Ragnow decided to hang up his cleats back in June, which was a surprise to Lions fans but not the team, as head coach Dan Campbell revealed he knew beforehand there was a chance the four-time Pro Bowler would hang up his cleats.
Ragnow, however, surprised everyone again on Wednesday, with the announcement that he'd be coming out of retirement to rejoin the Lions as they aim for the playoffs.
So, why did Ragnow retire in the first place? And why did he decide to return now?
Here's what we know.
Why did Frank Ragnow retire?
Ragnow's decision to retire was attributed to health concerns, a move that came as no surprise given his history of playing with injuries over several years.
"I’ve tried to convince myself that I’m feeling good but I’m not and it’s time to prioritize my health and my families future," Ragnow said. "I have given this team everything I have and I thought I had more to give, but the reality is I simply don’t. I have to listen to my body and this has been one of the hardest decisions of my life."
Clearly Ragnow is feeling better these days, but that isn't the only reason he decided to return.
What prompted Frank Ragnow's return from retirement?
The answer is very simple: Ragnow "loves the game," ESPN's Adam Schefter reported.
Love that answer.
Upon closer examination, it's clear Ragnow's passion for the sport never waned, and his decision to retire stemmed from health concerns.
No matter how much Ragnow loves the game, he wouldn't be coming back if he wasn't in better shape physically.
Clearly his time away from the game helped him heal.
When does Ragnow debut in 2025?
Ragnow won't be participating this week, and Schefter indicates he might also miss next week's game. A return in Week 15 appears to be the most probable scenario.
"Frank Ragnow’s first chance to play for the Lions will come next Thursday vs. The Cowboys, though it is considered unlikely for now, per source. A potential return-to-play date is Dec. 14 at the LA Rams," Schefter wrote.
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