Lions Trainer Thinks about Frank Ragnow's Toe More Than Wife

Detroit Lions center Frank Ragnow was at a dark place at times, due to his injured toe.

Constant pain, missing practice, and wondering if his future would be impacted weighed heavily on the talented center's mind.

All offseason, Detroit's new training staff worked with Ragnow to get him to the point where he feels comfortable with his weekly practice routine and ability to perform at a very high level.

"I can't say enough about Fish (director of player health and performance Brett Fischer). (Head athletic trainer) Mike Sundeen. I mean, I was in a dark place," said Ragnow. "I'm not going to lie with this toe. And, they've been able to make me see the light. And, it's been, hands down, a lot better. I'm very grateful for them. And then, Dan and Brad, everybody. It's hard as a player to be not practicing with your guys, and that's the part that sucks. But, understanding that for the long run for Sundays, it's going to help me a lot. And, they've been doing, not just with the rest days, just the rehab and everything, they've been doing. It's been great."

Fischer has thought about improving Ragnow's plight so much that he told the center he thinks about his injured toe more than his own wife.

Playing with healthy offensive line

Detroit's starting offensive line finally had an opportunity to play together, as Halapoulivaati Vaitai returned to the lineup after missing the entire 2022 season with a back injury.

Against the Chiefs, Taylor Decker, Jonah Jackson, Ragnow, Vaitai and Penei Sewell protected Jared Goff, and opened up holes for Detroit's new running backs.

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"It's cool to be able to play with four freak shows like that," said Ragnow.

For years, the offensive line has been touted as a group that can be among the best in the NFL.

Various injuries have kept the unit from playing together the past couple of seasons.

Now, the opportunity presents itself for the unit to grow together, with hopes of being able to lead the offense in achieving its elevated goals this season.