Lions’ Playoff Hopes Hang in Balance as Key Players Face Uncertain Future

ALLEN PARK, Mich. — The Detroit Lions, fresh off a 15-2 regular season and the NFC‘s No. 1 seed, are facing a critical juncture in their playoff journey. After earning a first-round bye, the Lions are just two wins away from reaching the Super Bowl, but their season could end abruptly in the single-elimination playoffs.

The Lions’ core, including quarterback Jared Goff, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, and right tackle Penei Sewell, is secured on multi-year deals. However, the team’s future hinges on decisions regarding pending free agents and potential extensions for draft picks from the 2021 class. Key contributors like cornerback Amik Robertson, defensive tackle D.J. Reader, and right guard Kevin Zeitler have been instrumental in the Lions’ success this season.

Frank Ragnow, the Lions’ standout center, reflected on the team’s unexpected early exit from the playoffs. Despite battling numerous injuries, including a partially torn pectoral muscle, Ragnow missed only one game this season. “Perspective-wise, comparatively, I’m healthier than I’ve ever been, so that’s a blessing,” Ragnow said during locker room cleanout day.

Ragnow, a three-time Pro Bowler and two-time All-Pro, has been a cornerstone of the Lions’ offensive line. Pro Football Focus ranked him as the third-best center in the NFL, allowing just two sacks over 1,060 snaps. His leadership and resilience have been pivotal in the team’s success, including their sweep of the Minnesota Vikings to clinch back-to-back division titles.

Despite the disappointment of a one-and-done playoff run, Ragnow remains optimistic about the team’s future. “There’s so many talented dudes in this room,” he said. “The foundation that Brad (Holmes) and Dan (Campbell) have set with pillar-stone players in this locker room… I think it’s going to be tough for us to do anything besides success.”

As the Lions head into the offseason, the focus will shift to retaining key players and building on the progress made under head coach Dan Campbell and general manager Brad Holmes. The team’s ability to navigate free agency and the draft will determine whether they can sustain their recent success and make a deeper playoff run in the future.