The Cleveland Browns and veteran left guard Joel Bitonio have agreed to push back the void date of his current contract to March 11, according to a league source speaking with Dan Labbe of The Cleveland Plain Dealer. Originally set to expire on February 16, this extension grants Bitonio additional time to decide whether he will return to the Browns for a 13th NFL season.
The decision to delay the void date is significant for the Browns, as allowing the contract to void earlier would have resulted in a $23 million dead-cap charge. The new timeline offers the team and Bitonio the opportunity to finalize whether they will extend his contract or part ways by March 11.
A Veteran Presence at Left Guard for Cleveland
Joel Bitonio, the longest-tenured player currently with the Browns, has been a key figure on their offensive line since being drafted in the second round out of Nevada in 2014. At 34 years old, Bitonio has demonstrated remarkable consistency and skill, earning seven consecutive Pro Bowl selections from 2018 through 2024. If he chooses to return in 2026, he is expected to resume his role as the Browns’ starting left guard.
Implications for the Browns and Bitonio
This contract update marks a crucial moment in both Bitonio’s career and the Browns’ roster planning. His potential retention will provide stability and veteran leadership for Cleveland’s offensive line. Conversely, the team will need to explore other options if they decide not to extend him. The delay in the contract’s void date allows both parties more time to consider the best path forward before the new league year begins.
