Fresh off winning the inaugural Rimington Trophy as the top center in college football at Nebraska, Dominic Raiola was selected by Detroit in the second round of the 2001 NFL Draft. After spending his rookie year learning the ropes in a backup role, Raiola took over as the starting center in 2002 and held down the pivot point of Motown's offensive line for the next thirteen seasons.

Raiola's time with Honolulu blue was marked by exceptional durability and a tough, fiery attitude. Throughout a career that saw frequent coaching changes, quarterback shifts, and limited supporting talent, he missed only four games in 14 seasons. His sharpness as a line caller and resilience in the trenches made him the key leader for the protection units that achieved franchise records for fewest sacks in 2002 and 2003.

Although postseason awards and Pro Bowl selections often overlooked him, Raiola was highly respected within the organization for his durability and long career. He made history as the first Lion to play 200 games for the franchise, playing a key role in transitioning from the tough, underperforming years of the 2000s to the dynamic playoff teams featuring Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson.

By the time he retired following the 2014 season, Raiola had logged 219 games played and 203 starts in a Detroit uniform—placing him behind only Jason Hanson on the franchise's all-time games played list.