It’s a Thanksgiving Day miracle!
As teased by the Detroit Lions and later confirmed by multiple national reporters, All-Pro center Frank Ragnow is coming out of retirement after just a few months on the sideline.
“Center Frank Ragnow is returning. Sounds like he’s in shape and ready to roll sooner, rather than later,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport tweeted.
It’s a shocking development, as many have said that Ragnow was comfortable with his decision to retire after seven seasons with the Detroit Lions.
In June, Ragnow suddenly announced his retirement, noting that the physical part of the game had taken its toll, and he was ready to start life outside of football.
“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,” Ragnow wrote in a social media post. “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 family’s 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 this enough, how grateful I am for this team and all the fans. It was an absolute honor going to battle for you all.”
Ragnow’s return comes as a huge development for a Lions team that could use some serious help on the offensive line.
It’s unclear when Ragnow is expected to be activated and when he’ll be ready to play, but he will certainly be a big help for a Lions team that needs to win at least three or four of their remaining six games.
UPDATE: Per Adam Schefter, Ragnow is unlikely to play by next week’s game against the Dallas Cowboys, but Week 15’s game against the Rams is a “potential return-to-play date.”
This is a developing story, and we’ll update as more information comes in. For now, let’s celebrate!
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