As we kick off a new month and more offseason activities in June, the Detroit Lions saw one of their most-respected veterans make a shocking announcement.
Center Frank Ragnow announced he was retiring from the NFL at the age of 29 years old.
Could the Lions go out and find his replacement in the free agent pool that's all but dried up? It's possible, especially because former Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears interior offensive lineman Dan Feeney is still available.
The Lions could go sign a familiar NFC North face to help fill the void of Frank Ragnow
Ragnow, the four-time Pro Bowler and three-time All Pro (Second Team) selection, now leaves an enormous hole in Detroit's offensive line. Fortunately, there is time to figure out a replacement. While that could come in a variety of ways, including possibly throwing rookie Tate Ratledge in there.
But, going after a veteran to come in, at least for depth and competition, would be another possibility.
Someone like a Dan Feeney could be in the realm of possibilities, considering he's been around a while now and has recently been in the NFC North. Last year, he was with the Vikings and in 2023 he spent the season in Chicago.
Over his eight years in the NFL, Feeney has appeared in 120 games including making 65 starts. He's played multiple spots on the interior and has experience playing center, of course.
Would Feeney be an immediate starter if signed? Maybe, maybe not. That's hard to say, considering he hasn't played a ton of football over the past couple of years. Last year, he didn't play a single snap for the Vikings and played 91 snaps for the Bears in 2023.
Between 2021 and 2022, he played 293 snaps with the Jets. The last time he was a regular starter was back in 2020 with the Miami Dolphins. Since then, it's been mostly reserve work.
But, the Lions wouldn't have much to lose by bringing him in for depth and competition.