The Detroit Lions have taken a swift step to address the sudden void left by the unexpected retirement of their star center, Frank Ragnow. Just days after the 29-year-old All-Pro lineman announced his retirement on June 2, 2025, the Lions have signed veteran offensive lineman Trystan Colon to a one-year deal, aiming to stabilize their interior offensive line heading into the 2025 NFL season.
Ragnow’s decision to retire at the peak of his career sent ripples through the Lions’ roster. A first-round pick in 2018, Ragnow had been the steadfast starting center for Detroit since his rookie year, notching 96 starts and earning four Pro Bowl selections. His leadership and skill anchored the Lions’ offensive line, making his departure a significant challenge for the team.
Enter Trystan Colon, a 27-year-old versatile lineman with experience across multiple positions on the offensive front. Colon, who began his NFL journey as an undrafted free agent out of Missouri in 2020, has played in 51 games over five seasons with two franchises: the Baltimore Ravens and the Arizona Cardinals.
Colon’s early career saw him primarily with the Ravens, where he appeared in 20 games and made four starts between 2020 and 2022, predominantly at center. After a brief stint with the New York Jets in the 2023 offseason, where he was released during final roster cuts, Colon found a new home with the Cardinals. Over the 2023 and 2024 seasons, he played 31 games for Arizona, starting 11, mostly at right guard. In 2024 alone, he started seven games and logged 709 offensive snaps, earning a solid Pro Football Focus (PFF) overall grade of 71.0, with pass blocking and run blocking grades of 65.9 and 68.5 respectively—marks that place him above average at his position.
His ability to perform at both guard and center positions makes Colon a valuable asset for the Lions, who are currently navigating uncertainty on the interior line. The team’s offseason activities have seen veteran Graham Glasgow, who has experience at all three interior line spots, and second-round rookie Tate Ratledge, a versatile player praised for his adaptability, taking first-team reps at center during organized team activities (OTAs). Christian Mahogany and other young players like Michael Niese, Kingsley Eguakun, and Colby Sorsdal are also in the mix, cross-training to fill various roles.
Colon’s signing adds depth and flexibility, giving head coach Dan Campbell and offensive line coach Brian Stewart more options as they determine the best lineup configuration. The Lions’ front office appears to be casting a wide net, understanding that replacing a player of Ragnow’s caliber is a tall order and that a multi-faceted approach is necessary.
Mike Garafolo of NFL Network reported the signing, highlighting Colon’s versatility and experience as key reasons for the acquisition. “This signing isn’t one that’s going to blow anybody away, but Colon is coming off of a solid season for the Cardinals and can fill multiple roles for the Lions as they figure out how to handle the interior of their offensive line for the 2025 season,” Garafolo noted.
With the 2025 NFL season approaching, the Lions face the challenge of retooling an offensive line that was once anchored by one of the best centers in the league. Ragnow’s retirement leaves a leadership vacuum and a gap in experience that the team hopes to fill through a combination of veteran presence and promising young talent.
Graham Glasgow’s versatility will be tested as he juggles responsibilities between guard and center. Meanwhile, Ratledge’s transition from primarily a right guard role in college to taking first-team snaps at center during OTAs speaks to the coaching staff’s belief in his adaptability and potential to step up in a critical position.
Colon’s arrival also brings a measure of stability. His experience starting games at both center and guard in the NFL, combined with his recent productive seasons, provides the Lions with a reliable option who understands the demands of the position and can contribute immediately.
While contractual details of Colon’s deal have not been publicly disclosed, the one-year term suggests both parties view this as a short-term solution with the possibility of longer collaboration depending on performance and team needs.
As the Lions prepare for training camp and the regular season, the offensive line will be a focal point of attention. The unit’s performance will be crucial in protecting quarterback Jared Goff and establishing a consistent running game—both vital components for the Lions’ offensive success.
The Lions have shown resilience and adaptability in the face of Ragnow’s sudden retirement, and signing Colon is a clear indication of their commitment to maintaining competitiveness. The 2025 season promises to be a test of depth and development along the offensive front.
With Colon joining a mix of veterans and young players, Detroit’s offensive line battle is shaping up to be a compelling storyline this offseason. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the Lions fill the void left by one of their most reliable linemen in recent memory.
For now, the signing of Trystan Colon brings a measure of reassurance and flexibility to a team in transition, as Detroit gears up for what could be a pivotal year in their quest to build a formidable offensive line and push deeper into the postseason.
