Frank Ragnow has unexpectedly called it a career.
The Detroit Lions center announced his retirement on Monday after seven seasons in the NFL.
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“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,” the 29-year-old 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 (sic) 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 walks away while still seemingly in the prime of his career.
He is coming off a third All-Pro season, while making it to the Pro Bowl for the fourth time.
Ragnow was ranked the best run blocking center in the NFL last year, and graded out as the second best center overall.
It is a massive loss for the Lions and their Super Bowl aspirations heading into next season.
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And unfortunately for Lions fans, having one of their star players retire early while still in their prime is something they are used.
Hall of Famers Calvin Johnson and Barry Sanders, some of the best who have ever done it at their respective positions, both walked away while still dominating on the field for the Lions.
In recent times, stars including Aaron Donald and Andrew Luck have shocked the NFL world by deciding to walk away when they did.
It has left some fans to question the future of the game and some are worried about Ragnow’s health.
“DAMN! Ragnow JUST turned 29. This guy has gone through a lot of injuries though. Fractured throat, groin, calf, turf toe, ankle, back issues, knee injury, torn pectoral,” one fan commented on X.
“Happy he chose to walk away when he did, hope he is fine long-term,” another fan chimed in.
“Everyone is retiring so early,” one more fan added.
The violent nature of the sport itself doesn’t lend itself to long careers, so playing seven seasons in the National Football League is still quite an impressive feat for Ragnow.
And considering the high level in which he played it at, he has absolutely nothing to be ashamed of.
The Lions will have to retool as they look to get over the hump and into the Super Bowl for the first time in franchise history.
