Hank Fraley, the Detroit Lions’ offensive line coach, has been gaining attention around the league for his role in the team’s success. He recently interviewed for the Seattle Seahawks’ offensive coordinator position, and it’s likely that more opportunities will come his way. There’s also a chance Fraley could follow Ben Johnson or Aaron Glenn should either leave the Lions for a head coaching role, potentially becoming their offensive coordinator. He is also a strong internal candidate to replace Johnson if he departs.

Naturally, players are hesitant about losing a coach who has made a significant impact on them. When the Lions cleaned out their lockers on Sunday, both center Frank Ragnow and right tackle Penei Sewell addressed the possibility of Fraley leaving.

Ragnow was direct when asked about the potential departure of Fraley.

“No, you refuse to let Hank leave,” Ragnow said. “I haven’t played in this league without Hank and I don’t plan on doing it. I’ll sabotage him, I’ll leak stories, whatever it takes.”

He then elaborated on Fraley’s importance to him.

“I don’t think I could play in this league without the guy. He’s everything to me. He’s been there since Day 1,” Ragnow explained. “There are many coaches in this league, but not many like him who empower players and foster open dialogue. He does everything to help us feel confident and perform at our best.”

Ragnow emphasized how Fraley’s background as a former center has been vital to his development.

“Again, I’ve said it before, but him being a former center has been invaluable to me,” Ragnow added. “We discuss how we see things, and he listens to my perspective, which is rare. I’m just so grateful for him.”

Sewell echoed Ragnow’s sentiment shortly after.

“Yeah, it’s the same for me,” Sewell said. “He’s not going anywhere. He’s been a pillar for me in this organization. When I first arrived, I immediately connected with him, and we’ve got history. He was recruiting me in high school when he was at UCLA. Our bond has grown, and he’s like coach (Dan) Campbell to me. He’s not leaving.”

Rookie offensive lineman Giovanni Manu shared how his relationship with Fraley has developed this season.

“I’ve built a strong relationship with him,” Manu said. “Not just with him, but with (assistant offensive line coach) Steve Oliver, too. No other coach understands me as well as he does. That’s why I’d love for him to stay throughout my entire career.”

Ragnow also credited Fraley’s role in the success