Frank Ragnow’s return has hit a snag.
The four-time Pro Bowl quarterback, who was trying to end his retirement and return to the Lions this week, has failed a physical and will not rejoin Detroit, the team announced Saturday.
“Frank Ragnow announced our facility yesterday and went through the normal process of meetings,” the Lions said in a statement. “Unfortunately, during a routine meeting with our medical team, Frank failed his physical. The medical exam revealed a grade 3 hamstring strain that will keep him out for the rest of the regular season. Because of that, Frank will not be rejoining the Lions. Frank has always been a first-team player and is a true warrior. He will forever be a Lion.”
Ragnow, 29, retired in early June after weighing his future after a seven-year career.
The Lions moved Graham Glasgow from shift to center when Ragnow retired. Rookie Tate Ratledge filled the old spot in Glasgow, but injuries across Detroit’s entire offensive line have caused problems for the offense.
Ragnow’s decision to retire after less than a full season was a welcome development for a Lions (7-5) team that has struggled to win in recent weeks. Detroit must now proceed the same way it started the season: without Ragnow.