Detroit Lions' 2018 First Round Pick: Who Was It?

The Detroit Lions, a team with a rich history and passionate fanbase, always generate excitement around the NFL Draft. The draft is a crucial opportunity for teams to rebuild, add talent, and address key needs. In 2018, the Lions had a significant chance to bolster their roster with their first-round pick. So, who did the Detroit Lions select in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft? Let's dive in and explore the pick, the context surrounding it, and how that player has fared since joining the team.

The Pick: Frank Ragnow

The Detroit Lions selected Frank Ragnow, a center from the University of Arkansas, with the 20th overall pick in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft. This pick was met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts alike. While Ragnow was widely regarded as one of the top interior offensive linemen in the draft, some questioned whether taking a center that high was the best use of the Lions' valuable draft capital. Centers are often undervalued compared to more glamorous positions like quarterback, wide receiver, or edge rusher. However, the Lions' front office, led by then-General Manager Bob Quinn, clearly saw something special in Ragnow. They believed he had the potential to be a cornerstone of their offensive line for years to come. This decision underscored the team's commitment to building a strong and reliable offensive line to protect their quarterback and improve their running game. Ragnow’s selection was a strategic move aimed at solidifying the interior of the offensive line, providing stability and enhanced performance in both pass protection and run blocking. The Lions' decision-makers recognized the importance of a strong offensive line in building a successful and competitive team. By investing in Ragnow, they aimed to create a foundation for offensive success and long-term stability. The pick reflected a broader philosophy of prioritizing the trenches and building from the inside out. Ragnow’s college career at Arkansas was marked by exceptional performance and consistent improvement. He earned numerous accolades and established himself as one of the top centers in the nation. His combination of strength, technique, and football IQ made him an attractive prospect for NFL teams. The Lions were particularly impressed by his ability to anchor the offensive line, his quickness off the snap, and his proficiency in both run and pass blocking. These qualities aligned perfectly with the Lions' vision of building a dominant offensive line. Moreover, Ragnow’s character and leadership qualities were highly valued by the Lions' coaching staff. He was known for his work ethic, his dedication to the game, and his positive influence on his teammates. These intangible qualities further solidified the Lions' belief that he would be a valuable addition to their locker room and a key contributor to their team culture. In summary, the selection of Frank Ragnow in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft was a strategic and well-considered decision by the Detroit Lions. It reflected their commitment to building a strong offensive line, their belief in Ragnow’s exceptional talent and potential, and their appreciation for his character and leadership qualities. While the pick was not without its critics, it ultimately proved to be a successful investment in the team's future.

The Context: Lions' Needs in 2018

To fully understand the Lions' decision to draft Frank Ragnow, it's essential to consider the team's situation heading into the 2018 NFL Draft. The Lions were coming off a 9-7 season in 2017, missing the playoffs for the third consecutive year. While the team showed flashes of potential, it was clear that they needed to address several key areas to take the next step and compete for a Super Bowl. One of the most glaring needs was on the offensive line. The Lions' offensive line had struggled to consistently protect quarterback Matthew Stafford and create running lanes for the running backs. Stafford was often under pressure, and the running game was among the least productive in the league. Improving the offensive line was seen as crucial to unlocking the full potential of the Lions' offense. A stronger offensive line would not only provide better protection for Stafford but also allow the running game to flourish, making the Lions' offense more balanced and unpredictable. In addition to the offensive line, the Lions also had needs at other positions, including edge rusher, cornerback, and wide receiver. However, the team's brass clearly felt that the offensive line was the most pressing issue. They believed that investing in the offensive line would have a ripple effect, improving not only the passing game but also the running game and overall offensive efficiency. The decision to prioritize the offensive line reflected a broader trend in the NFL at the time. Teams were increasingly recognizing the importance of a strong offensive line in building a successful team. A dominant offensive line could control the line of scrimmage, dictate the tempo of the game, and provide a significant advantage in both the running and passing game. The Lions' decision to draft Ragnow was also influenced by the availability of talent at the time of their pick. While there were other talented players available at positions of need, the Lions felt that Ragnow was the best player available at their spot in the draft. They believed that his talent and potential outweighed the positional value concerns associated with drafting a center in the first round. Furthermore, the Lions were confident in their coaching staff's ability to develop Ragnow into a Pro Bowl-caliber player. They believed that his work ethic, intelligence, and physical attributes would allow him to quickly adapt to the NFL and become a key contributor to the team's success. In summary, the Detroit Lions' decision to draft Frank Ragnow in the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft was driven by a clear understanding of the team's needs, the importance of a strong offensive line, and the availability of talent at the time of their pick. It was a strategic move aimed at addressing a critical weakness and building a foundation for long-term offensive success.

Ragnow's Career with the Lions

Since being drafted, Frank Ragnow has become a cornerstone of the Detroit Lions' offensive line. He quickly established himself as a reliable and consistent performer, earning the respect of his teammates and coaches. In his rookie season, Ragnow started all 16 games at left guard, showcasing his versatility and willingness to play wherever the team needed him. While he primarily played guard in his first season, it was always the plan for him to eventually move to center, his natural position. Ragnow’s transition to center came in his second season, and he immediately thrived. His intelligence, technique, and leadership qualities made him a natural fit for the position. He quickly became the anchor of the Lions' offensive line, responsible for making calls and directing traffic. One of Ragnow's defining traits is his toughness and durability. He has consistently played through injuries and rarely misses games. His commitment to the team and his willingness to sacrifice his body have made him a fan favorite in Detroit. Ragnow’s impact on the Lions' offensive line has been significant. Under his leadership, the offensive line has become one of the most improved units in the league. He has helped to protect the quarterback, create running lanes, and provide stability to the entire offense. His presence has also had a positive impact on the development of other offensive linemen. He serves as a mentor and role model for younger players, helping them to improve their technique and understanding of the game. In recognition of his outstanding performance, Ragnow was named to the Pro Bowl in 2020 and has consistently been ranked among the top centers in the NFL. His accolades are a testament to his hard work, dedication, and exceptional talent. Ragnow’s success with the Lions has validated the team's decision to draft him in the first round. He has proven to be a valuable asset both on and off the field. His leadership, toughness, and consistent performance have made him a key contributor to the team's success. Moreover, Ragnow’s impact extends beyond the football field. He is actively involved in the Detroit community and is known for his charitable work and positive influence. He serves as a role model for young people and is committed to making a difference in the lives of others. In conclusion, Frank Ragnow has had a remarkable career with the Detroit Lions since being drafted in 2018. He has established himself as one of the top centers in the NFL and has become a cornerstone of the team's offensive line. His leadership, toughness, and consistent performance have made him a fan favorite and a valuable asset to the Lions organization. He is a true example of a player who has lived up to his potential and has made a positive impact both on and off the field.

Impact on the Lions

The selection of Frank Ragnow has had a significant and positive impact on the Detroit Lions. His presence on the offensive line has improved the team's overall offensive performance and has provided stability and leadership. One of the most noticeable impacts has been on the Lions' passing game. With Ragnow anchoring the offensive line, the quarterback has had more time to throw, resulting in improved accuracy and increased passing yardage. He has consistently provided excellent pass protection, allowing the quarterback to make reads and deliver the ball downfield. Ragnow’s impact on the running game has also been significant. He has helped to create running lanes for the running backs, allowing them to gain more yards and contribute to a more balanced offensive attack. His strength, technique, and intelligence have made him a valuable asset in run blocking. In addition to his on-field performance, Ragnow has also had a positive impact on the Lions' team culture. His work ethic, dedication, and leadership qualities have set a positive example for his teammates. He is a respected leader in the locker room and is known for his positive attitude and commitment to the team. The Lions' coaching staff has praised Ragnow for his intelligence, his ability to learn quickly, and his willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team succeed. He is a true professional and is highly valued by the organization. Moreover, Ragnow’s presence has helped to improve the overall morale and confidence of the team. His consistent performance and leadership have instilled a sense of belief and optimism among his teammates. He is a player that the Lions can rely on, and his presence has helped to create a more positive and cohesive team environment. The impact of Ragnow’s selection extends beyond the immediate improvement in the Lions' offensive performance. His presence has also helped to attract other talented players to the team. Players want to play alongside a player of his caliber, and his presence has made the Lions a more attractive destination for free agents and draft prospects. In conclusion, the selection of Frank Ragnow has had a profound and lasting impact on the Detroit Lions. His presence has improved the team's offensive performance, enhanced the team culture, and attracted other talented players to the organization. He is a valuable asset to the Lions and is a key contributor to their success. His impact will be felt for years to come, and he will be remembered as one of the best offensive linemen in Lions history.