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Packers just got help from unexpected NFC North twist that could materially shift the balance in the division

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Wendell Ferreira | Last updated Jun 2, 2025 3:36 PM ET

In a tough division like the NFC North, one man's loss is another man's gain. On Monday, the Detroit Lions lost a huge piece of their offense, with center Frank Ragnow announcing his retirement due to injuries. Especially for a team based on its offensive line performance, it's a huge loss.

"These past couple of months have been very trying as I've come to the realization that my football journey is ending and I'm officially retiring from the NFL," Ragnow posted on Instagram. "I've tried to convince myself that I'm feeling good but I'm not and it's time to prioritize my health and my family's future. I have given this team everything I have and I thought I had more to give, but the reality is I simply don't.

Therefore, it's a positive outcome for the Green Bay Packers. Obviously, nobody will root for injuries. But since Ragnow is making the best decision for himself and for his long-term health, the Packers can certainly take advantage of the situation.

"I have to listen to my body and this has been one of the hardest decisions of my life," Ragnow added. "The Lions organization has been absolutely incredible throughout this process and I can't emphasize this enough how grateful I am for this team and all the fans. It was an absolute honor going to battle for you all."

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A post shared by Frank Ragnow (@frank_ragnow)

He was one of the best centers in football, being the pillar of a top offensive line. Last year, in the two games against the Packers, Ragnow had 83.6 and 81.1 pass blocking grades according to PFF. Combining both games, he allowed just one pressure. There's no way around it, this news is a significant blow to Detroit's chances in the NFC.

For now, it looks like second-round rookie Tate Ratledge is the favorite to land the starting job. Veterans like Graham Glasgow, Kingsley Eguakun, and Michael Niese could be in the mix as well.

"Anyone who's watched the Lions in the past few seasons knows what this offensive line looks like when Ragnow is not in the middle. He is the anchor of the entire thing, and he's looking for a new deal that will keep him around longer. That's huge for a team that now doesn't have to find a way to replace an All-Pro offensive lineman." — Mike Payton.

Ragnow was a first-round pick in 2018 and played his entire seven-year NFL career for the Lions. During this time, he was a Second-Team All-Pro three times, including in each of the last two years, and made the Pro Bowl four times, including in each of the past three seasons.

With Frank Ragnow's decision to retire, the Lions will have $4.8 million in dead Money now and $3.6 million next year. The team clears up $9.25 million in cap space in 2025 and $12.75 million in 2026, but the cost of losing a pillar of the offensive line is bigger — and the savings don't solve a rough financial circumstance starting next year, when the Lions have one of the worst cap situations in the NFL.

Under Jeff Hafley, the Packers have prioritized creating pressure through the middle of the defensive line. For two games this upcoming season, this task has just become much more feasible.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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