ESPN Plus, the authority on all things NFL, is back with its highly anticipated series ranking the top 10 players at every position in the league. This time, Detroit Lions’ center Frank Ragnow has received his well-deserved recognition by coming in at number eight on the list of interior linemen.
Ragnow, a veteran standout for the Lions, has long been overlooked despite his crucial role on the team. Offensive linemen often toil in obscurity, but their impact on the game cannot be understated. They are the unsung heroes responsible for protecting the quarterback, creating running lanes for the ball carrier, and laying the foundation for the team’s success.
According to ESPN, “Ragnow is one of the best in the league,” and it’s not just his talent that sets him apart. His work ethic, leadership, and toughness make him a valuable asset to the Lions. In a critical playoff game last January, Ragnow displayed his grit and determination by refusing to leave the field after sustaining a knee injury. With the team relying on him to secure a victory, Ragnow toughed it out and helped lead the Lions to a decisive win.
While initially starting his career as a left guard, Ragnow has since transitioned into the role of the Lions’ anchor on the offensive line. A three-time Pro-Bowler, Ragnow boasts impressive statistics, never allowing more than two sacks in a season and earning top grades among centers in the league. His exceptional blocking abilities have paved the way for the success of the Lions’ ground game, which showcased standout performances by running backs David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs.
Teaming up with veteran tackle Taylor Decker, Ragnow has flourished under the guidance of head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes. The addition of highly touted offensive tackle Penei Sewell further solidified the Lions’ offensive line as one of the best in the NFL. Sewell’s recent contract extension underscores his importance to the team, along with Ragnow and Decker.
As a veteran leader on the field, Ragnow’s ability to read and react to defensive schemes sets him apart. ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler praises Ragnow as a premier communicator on the line of scrimmage, helping to orchestrate one of the league’s most potent offenses. With Ragnow at the helm, the Lions’ offensive line is poised for continued success and recognition as one of the best in the NFL.
