Frank Ragnow discusses Detroit Lions retirement at Skeet Shoot Showdown
6 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 8:18 PM
Last updated Jun 12, 2026
Frank Ragnow, the former center for the Detroit Lions, spoke publicly for the first time about his retirement from the NFL at the Skeet Shoot Showdown on June 12. The four-time Pro Bowler, who left the game abruptly last spring at 29, shared that he struggled with the decision to retire due to health issues and a desire to spend more time with family. Ragnow mentioned feeling guilty about the Lions' performance in his absence, especially after Jared Goff was sacked a career-high 38 times last season. Although he briefly attempted a comeback, an injury during training dashed those hopes. Ragnow confirmed he is not considering a return to football and is focused on charitable work in Detroit, including activities benefiting children.
- •Ragnow retired last spring after seven NFL seasons.
- •He felt guilt over the Lions' struggles without him.
- •Attempted a comeback but injured his hamstring in training.
- •Ragnow confirmed he will not return to the NFL.
- •He remains active in community events in Detroit.
- 9:11 PMESPN NFL — Retired Ragnow: Body told me to stop playing
- 7:56 PMYahoo Sports — Former Lions center Frank Ragnow at peace in retirement
- 6:59 PMYahoo Sports — Frank Ragnow Opens Up About Retirement for First Time
- 6:34 PMYahoo Sports — Frank Ragnow talks about retirement from Detroit Lions for first time
"One year after announcing his abrupt retirement on social media, former Lions center Frank Ragnow broke his silence on the process and the failed physical that prevented his in-season return.
"Frank Ragnow, speaking publicly for the first time since his retirement from the Detroit Lions in June 2025, is at peace with his decision.
"Former Lions center Frank Ragnow shares the emotional story behind his retirement and reveals why he ultimately walked away from football.
Sources
External links- ESPN NFLJun 12, 2026, 9:11 PMRetired Ragnow: Body told me to stop playing
One year after announcing his abrupt retirement on social media, former Lions center Frank Ragnow broke his silence on the process and the failed physical that prevented his in-season return.
- Yahoo SportsJun 12, 2026, 7:56 PMFormer Lions center Frank Ragnow at peace in retirement
Frank Ragnow, speaking publicly for the first time since his retirement from the Detroit Lions in June 2025, is at peace with his decision.
- Yahoo SportsJun 12, 2026, 6:59 PMFrank Ragnow Opens Up About Retirement for First Time
Former Lions center Frank Ragnow shares the emotional story behind his retirement and reveals why he ultimately walked away from football.
- Yahoo SportsJun 12, 2026, 6:34 PMFrank Ragnow talks about retirement from Detroit Lions for first time
Four-time Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow discusses his abrupt retirement from the NFL last spring for the first time.
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