The Cleveland Browns are heading into a new chapter under offensive coordinator Todd Monken, and with 10 draft picks in hand, they’ve got the ammo to reload. But as the front office looks to infuse the roster with young talent, it’s clear that the veteran core - particularly along the offensive line - could look very different come Week 1.
The first domino already fell with tight end David Njoku announcing his departure, and more are likely to follow. The offensive line, long a strength of the team, is bracing for major turnover. Four of the five starters are set to hit free agency, and at the center of that uncertainty is a name that’s been synonymous with Browns football for over a decade: Joel Bitonio.
Bitonio’s contract voids on February 16, and after 12 seasons in Cleveland, the five-time All-Pro is once again considering retirement - just as he did last offseason. According to reports, he’s expected to inform the team of his plans soon, giving the front office time to prepare for what could be the end of an era.
Let’s be clear: Bitonio isn’t just a great Browns player - he’s one of the best offensive guards of his generation. Seven Pro Bowl selections.
Five All-Pro nods. A model of consistency and toughness, he’s played at least 15 games in each of the last nine seasons.
That kind of durability and high-level play doesn’t come around often, especially in the trenches.
Even in his age-34 season, Bitonio was still getting it done. His 70.7 overall grade from Pro Football Focus ranked 23rd among 81 qualifying guards - solid production by any measure.
His pass-blocking was even better, earning a 75.7 grade that ranked eighth league-wide. That’s not just hanging on; that’s still playing winning football.
Bitonio’s projected market value sits at $12.9 million for a one-year deal, but make no mistake - if he plays again, it’ll be in brown and orange. There’s no second act in another city for him. It’s Cleveland or retirement.
And honestly, that feels right. Bitonio has been a cornerstone of this franchise through the ups and downs, a leader in the locker room and a steady presence on the field. If this is the end, he walks away on his terms - a rare privilege in this league.
For GM Andrew Berry, the challenge now is twofold: navigate a tight salary cap while preparing for the possibility of replacing nearly the entire starting offensive line. That’s no small task. But the decision on Bitonio looms largest, not just because of the on-field impact, but because of what he’s meant to the identity of this team.
If this is goodbye, Joel Bitonio leaves behind a legacy that goes far beyond stats and accolades. He’s a future member of the Browns’ Ring of Honor, and he’s made a legitimate case for Hall of Fame consideration - even if offensive linemen don’t always get the spotlight they deserve.
Whatever comes next, Bitonio has earned every ounce of respect. And if he does decide to hang it up, he’ll do so as one of the most beloved and respected players in Cleveland Browns history.