Lions vs Packers Final Injury Update: Will Frank Ragnow Return Next Week?

The Lions vs Packers final injury update for Week 13 arrives with major news: Detroit center Frank Ragnow is back with the team and preparing for his return. He will not play on Thanksgiving, but early indications point to a comeback as soon as the Cowboys game on December 4.

The Lions enter the holiday matchup with several starters ruled out, including Graham Glasgow, Kerby Joseph, and Sam LaPorta. The Packers also face losses but gained a boost with Josh Jacobs cleared to play. Both teams will navigate key absences as they prepare for the divisional showdown in Detroit.

Full Breakdown of the Lions vs Packers Final Injury Update

Frank Ragnow’s unexpected return to the team is the biggest headline of the week. He retired in June due to long-standing toe issues but remained under contract through 2026. After months away from football, he rejoined the Lions on November 26 and is ramping up conditioning. Team officials expect him back either in Week 14 against the Cowboys or Week 15 against the Rams.

Detroit’s injury list remains long. Glasgow is out after an apparent left knee setback that followed his full workload last week. Kerby Joseph will miss another game due to a left knee injury that has sidelined him since October. The Lions also placed Brock Wright and Kalif Raymond on the inactive list after injuries suffered against the Giants.

Brian Branch, one of the unit’s most versatile defenders, is cleared to play after dealing with toe and ankle issues. Marcus Davenport is also expected to return following a full week of practice. Taylor Decker, Penei Sewell, Sione Vaki, and Tate Ratledge all appear on track to play despite being listed as questionable.

The Packers remain without Jayden Reed, while defensive contributors Karl Brooks and Lukas Van Ness are out. Keisean Nixon and Quay Walker are listed as questionable. Green Bay received good news with running back Josh Jacobs set to play after trending upward during the week.

The Lions’ tight end situation remains dire. All four top TEs are unavailable, including Kenny Yeboah, Shane Zylstra, Sam LaPorta, and Brock Wright. Detroit will rely on practice-squad elevations and adjusted formations to compensate. The team expects LaPorta’s recovery to push into late December, though his season remains in doubt.

What the Latest Injury News Means for the Week 13 Matchup

The Lions vs Packers final injury update creates major lineup challenges for Detroit’s offense. With Glasgow out and Ragnow not yet active, the interior offensive line must adjust for the second straight week. The absence of all four tight ends also forces Detroit to shift personnel and simplify certain blocking packages.

Still, the return of Marcus Davenport and the availability of Brian Branch give Detroit’s defense stability against a Packers offense missing multiple pass-catchers. Green Bay’s weakened defensive front may also benefit Detroit’s run game, even with lineup reshuffling inside.

The Lions expect Ragnow’s return next week to provide a major boost down the stretch. His comeback strengthens Detroit’s postseason push and brings long-term clarity to the offensive line. For now, Thanksgiving’s matchup will test their depth against a division rival.

The Lions vs Packers final injury update highlights both opportunity and uncertainty. Detroit will enter Thursday shorthanded, but brighter weeks appear ahead as key starters, including Frank Ragnow, move closer to full competition readiness.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: When will Frank Ragnow return?

Frank Ragnow is expected to return in Week 14 against the Cowboys or Week 15 against the Rams. He is back with the team and is ramping up practice activity.

Q2: Who is out for the Lions on Thanksgiving?

The Lions will be without Graham Glasgow, Sam LaPorta, Christian Mahogany, Kerby Joseph, Kalif Raymond, Brock Wright, and Josh Paschal. All are listed as out.

Q3: Are the Packers missing key players?

Yes. Jayden Reed, Karl Brooks, and Lukas Van Ness are out. Keisean Nixon and Quay Walker are questionable for Thursday.

Q4: Why is the Lions tight end group depleted?

The Lions have suffered injuries to all four top tight ends, including a high ankle sprain, knee injury, back surgery, and a neck sprain. Only practice-squad options remain available.

Q5: How does the injury update affect the Lions offense?

The offensive line and tight end injuries force Detroit to adjust formations and rely on reserve players. The team expects improvement when Ragnow returns.