The NFL was hit with major news when Detroit Lions center Frank Ragnow revealed his retirement. The four-time Pro Bowler had long anchored the Lions’ offensive line and was a key figure during the team’s peak, helping them reach the NFC Championship in 2023 and finish with a league-best 15-2 record last season.

However, what made the news truly stunning was Ragnow stepping away at just 29 years old. While negotiating a contract for the next season, he decided to retire due to a long history of injuries.

This prompted former Lions offensive coordinator and current Bears head coach Ben Johnson to salute his former center and share a memory from their time together in Detroit.

Johnson has ample memories to reflect on from Ragnow’s career. He joined Matt Patricia’s staff as an offensive quality control coach in 2019 and watched Ragnow appear in 80 of 96 career games—many while battling injuries.

A key moment that may stick out to Johnson came during the 2023 divisional round against Tampa Bay. After Ragnow sprained his knee and ankle on a collision with Jared Goff, Johnson called a run on 4th and Goal. Ragnow took on Pro Bowler Vita Vea, clearing the way for Craig Reynolds to score and give Detroit a 17-10 lead in a 31-23 win.

Ragnow dealt with injuries to his foot, toe, knee, ankle, back, and groin, and even played with a fractured throat. Despite it all, he remained elite—ranking top five in run blocking and overall center grades over the last three years, per Pro Football Focus. He also finished first in run blocking two seasons in a row and led all centers overall in 2023.

With a résumé like his, Johnson’s praise is well earned, and Detroit now faces a tough task replacing him next season.