Detroit Lions Prioritize Fixing Center Position This Offseason

Failure to solidify the center role could undermine the team's 2026 Super Bowl push.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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The Detroit Lions' top offseason priority is addressing the center position after the abrupt retirement of Pro Bowl center Frank Ragnow last June. The team struggled to find a suitable replacement in 2025, and heading into 2026, they can't afford another year of uncertainty at this critical offensive line spot. The Lions must find a proven, reliable center through free agency or the draft to stabilize the entire offense and protect quarterback Jared Goff.

Why it matters

The center position is the nerve center of the Lions' offense, responsible for setting protections, communicating defensive looks, and keeping the timing consistent. Instability at this position can ripple through the entire offense, leading to missed calls, increased pressure on the quarterback, and ultimately, mistakes that can derail a season. Fixing the center spot is essential for the Lions to maximize their talented roster and make a Super Bowl push in 2026.

The details

When Frank Ragnow's career came to an abrupt end last June, the Lions were forced into scramble mode to replace their Pro Bowl center. The results were uneven, with veteran Graham Glasgow failing to provide a long-term solution. The team has discussed shifting guard Tate Ratledge to center, but that approach risks undoing his progress at guard while still leaving questions at the pivotal position. Drafting a center is an option, but relying on a rookie to immediately command protections and anchor the interior is a risky gamble.

  • In June 2025, Frank Ragnow's career came to an abrupt end.
  • The Lions struggled to find a suitable replacement at center throughout the 2025 season.

The players

Frank Ragnow

A former Pro Bowl center whose abrupt retirement in 2025 left a void in the Detroit Lions' offensive line.

Graham Glasgow

A veteran offensive lineman who was unable to provide a long-term solution at center for the Lions in 2025.

Tate Ratledge

A Lions guard who the team has discussed shifting to center, but that approach risks undoing his progress at guard while still leaving questions at the pivotal position.

Jared Goff

The Lions' quarterback, who thrives on rhythm and structure, making stability at the center position crucial for the offense to function at a high level.

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What’s next

The Lions will need to address the center position aggressively this offseason, either through free agency or the draft, to ensure they have a reliable anchor for their offensive line and a stabilizing force for the entire offense.

The takeaway

The Detroit Lions' top offseason priority must be finding a proven, reliable center to replace the retired Frank Ragnow. Failing to solidify this critical position could undermine the team's Super Bowl aspirations in 2026, as instability at center can ripple through the entire offense and lead to costly mistakes. The Lions must act decisively, whether through free agency or the draft, to ensure they have the right player in place to command protections, manage communication, and anchor the interior of their offensive line.