NFL Pro-Bowler Suddenly Retires in Shocking Announcement

A four-time NFL Pro Bowler has suddenly announced his retirement from the league. Detroit Lions center Frank Ragnow announced that he will be calling it quits.

The veteran posted his retirement on social media.

“These past couple 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,” Ragnow wrote on Instagram. 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.

“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. The Lions organization has been absolutely incredible throughout this process and I can’t emphasize enough how grateful I am for this team and all the fans. It was an absolute honor going to battle for you all.”

Ragnow entered the NFL in 2018 when he was taken by the Lions in the first round of the draft. The former Arkansas product quickly made his presence known in the NFL, becoming one of the best offensive linemen in the game.

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During his career, Ragnow made four Pro Bowls and was named Second-Team All-Pro three times. Over the last few seasons, Ragnow has been a centerpiece to the Lions’ offensive line, widely regarded as one of the best units in the game.

Ragnow has helped Detroit become relevant in the NFL and has established a culture of toughness with the Lions. But injuries have taken hold of his career over recent years, and it seems that the number of issues has become more than he was willing to handle.

Detrout Lions
KANSAS CITY, MO – SEPTEMBER 7: Halapoulivaati Vaitai #72 and Frank Ragnow #77 of the Detroit Lions line up before a play during an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field…
KANSAS CITY, MO – SEPTEMBER 7: Halapoulivaati Vaitai #72 and Frank Ragnow #77 of the Detroit Lions line up before a play during an NFL football game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on September 7, 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri.

Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

Ragnow started in 16 regular-season games for the Lions last year, and one playoff game. In 1,060 snaps played, Ragnow allowed just two sacks and had seven penalties.

Detroit will now look to fill the place of Ragnow, which could be tricky. The Lions have prided themselves on being a tough-nosed unit, and Ragnow will surely be missed along the offensive line.

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