Detroit Lions fans erupted with excitement after the team shared a surprising social media post on Wednesday afternoon.

At 3:45 p.m., the Lions uploaded a photo of longtime center Frank Ragnow emerging from the Ford Field tunnel. Ragnow, who announced his retirement earlier this year, hasn’t taken the field in 2025—but league insiders almost immediately confirmed that the post signaled his official comeback.

Ragnow, drafted in the first round out of Arkansas in 2017, has been a cornerstone of Detroit’s rebuild. The 29-year-old stepped away from football during offseason workouts, saying he needed to put his long-term health first.

His return arrived just under the wire. Because Ragnow was placed on the reserve-retired list, he had to be activated before Week 13 to be eligible this season. With the Lions playing on Thanksgiving, that deadline fell on Wednesday—and the team met it just in time.

Ragnow’s presence will give Detroit’s offensive line a major lift. The veteran has earned four Pro Bowl nods and three Second-Team All-Pro selections in nine seasons, and he’s expected to resume his role as the starting center when fully ready.

In his absence, the Lions turned to Graham Glasgow, but Glasgow has been ruled out for the Thanksgiving matchup with Green Bay. He’s just one of several linemen dealing with injuries, making Ragnow’s decision to return even more significant.

Although Ragnow won’t suit up against the Packers, his first chance to play again will come on December 5 against the Cowboys—though reports suggest the more realistic target is Detroit’s December 14 game versus the Rams.

The Lions’ offensive front remains depleted. Christian Mahogany is on injured reserve, while Taylor Decker, Penei Sewell and Tate Ratledge are all listed as questionable with various issues. Ragnow’s return gives Detroit not only high-end talent but a fully healthy leader at a crucial point in the season.

Per multiple reports, Ragnow will resume his previous contract terms, keeping him under team control through 2026.

Fans, teammates and media members quickly reacted online, sharing their excitement and relief at the news