Detroit Lions May Already Have Frank Ragnow’s Eventual Replacement, But Is the Future of Their Offensive Line Truly Secure?

Detroit, MI – May 12, 2025 – For the past several seasons, Frank Ragnow has anchored the Detroit Lions’ offensive line with elite consistency, leadership, and physical toughness. The Pro Bowl center, drafted 20th overall in the 2018 NFL Draft, has been a cornerstone of the team’s recent resurgence. But as Ragnow enters the later stages of his NFL career—now in his eighth season—the Lions front office is quietly preparing for the future.

While Ragnow remains a high-impact player when healthy, lingering injuries, including chronic toe issues and occasional lower-body ailments, have raised questions about his long-term availability. And while there’s no imminent retirement announcement, the Lions might already have his successor on the roster.

Graham Barton: The Heir in Waiting?

The name that’s generating buzz in the Lions facility is Graham Barton, the team’s first-round draft pick in 2024 out of Duke University. Though primarily a left tackle in college, Barton was praised for his versatility, intelligence, and quick-footed agility—traits that translate well to an interior line role, especially at center.

In the 2024 preseason, Barton took snaps at multiple positions, and coaches were particularly impressed by his communication skills and awareness when lined up at center. Offensive line coach Hank Fraley has hinted that Barton could be the “long-term answer in the middle,” should Ragnow’s health or future availability come into question.

“Graham’s a quick learner, very sharp mentally,” Fraley said in a post-practice interview. “He reminds us of Frank in a lot of ways—calm under pressure, good with protections, and physically tough.”

Ragnow Still Has Plenty in the Tank

To be clear, Frank Ragnow is still the Lions’ starting center, and as long as he’s healthy, there’s no reason to rush a change. In 2024, Ragnow once again graded as one of the top centers in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus, helping the Lions offense finish top-five in rushing efficiency.

Head coach Dan Campbell has called Ragnow “the heart and soul” of the offensive line, praising his toughness and leadership both in the locker room and on the field.

However, in recent seasons, Ragnow has battled through painful injuries, often playing through them but occasionally missing key stretches. It’s those moments that have prompted the Lions to think proactively about depth and succession planning.

A Forward-Thinking Front Office

General Manager Brad Holmes has made it clear that maintaining a dominant offensive line is a foundational philosophy for the team’s long-term success. Drafting Graham Barton wasn’t just about depth—it was about ensuring that, whenever Ragnow does move on, the line doesn’t miss a beat.

In the modern NFL, where quarterbacks are increasingly protected by strong interior play, having a reliable center is crucial. Barton’s potential to take over the role seamlessly aligns with Detroit’s forward-thinking roster strategy.

“You want continuity and intelligence at that position,” Holmes said. “Frank’s one of the best, and we’re lucky to have him. But we also believe in developing the next man up, and Graham has everything you look for in a future center.”

What the Future Holds

Ragnow is under contract through the 2026 season, but restructuring or early retirement could come into play depending on his health and the team’s cap considerations. If Barton continues to progress and show comfort at center, the Lions may begin gradually shifting responsibilities his way—potentially even giving him snaps in relief situations during the 2025 season.

Another scenario could see Barton begin at left guard or right guard, giving him starting reps while still learning from Ragnow before eventually sliding into the center role full-time.

For now, the Lions are in an enviable position. They have one of the league’s best veteran centers and a highly promising rookie who could be his eventual replacement. It’s the type of succession plan most teams only dream of.

Final Thoughts

Frank Ragnow’s value to the Lions cannot be overstated. He’s a warrior, a leader, and a technician at one of the league’s most underrated positions. But as with all great players, the time eventually comes when the torch must be passed.

With Graham Barton in the pipeline, Detroit may already have the perfect successor in place.