CLEVELAND, Ohio — When the Browns play the Lions in Week 4 this season, they won’t have to figure Frank Ragnow into the defensive game plan anymore.
Detroit’s All-Pro center on Monday announced his retirement via Instagram, citing his decision to prioritize his health and wellness. He wrote:
“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. 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 was one of the best centers in the NFL.
Through seven seasons, he garnered three second-team All-Pro selections, and four Pro Bowl nods. Since 2020, he’s the only NFL center to allow fewer than five sacks through 2,000 or more pass-block snaps.
Ragnow was an integral part of Detroit’s recent success and playoff runs, helping bring the franchise to prominence after years of bad play.
The Lions’ backup center is currently Michael Niese, and he may be the starter come this fall.
The Browns vs. Lions game is set for 1 p.m. on Sept. 28 at Detroit’s Ford Field.
Football Insider newsletter free trial: Take a minute and sign up for a free trial of our Football Insider newsletter, featuring exclusive content from cleveland.com's Browns reporters.