At the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Cleveland Browns General Manager Andrew Berry revealed that veteran left guard Joel Bitonio has not ruled out playing a 13th NFL season. The Browns extended the deadline on Bitonio’s contract decision to March 11, allowing him additional time to weigh his options. This development keeps open the possibility of retaining one of their most consistent offensive linemen for another year.
Berry emphasized understanding Bitonio’s need for space in making this important decision, saying,
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Joel’s still working through that and at this point in his career, this point in his life, he deserves the time and space to do that, stay in regular communications and we’ll work through that at the appropriate time,
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highlighting the team’s respect for the player’s process. Despite a fluid situation around him, Bitonio maintained a high level of play throughout the 2025 season, and Berry confirmed the Browns are ready to keep his starting role open should he choose to return.
Significance of Bitonio’s Potential Return for the Browns’ Lineup
If Bitonio decides to come back, it would significantly ease the Browns’ task of rebuilding their offensive line, which requires multiple upgrades. Beyond his on-field contributions, Bitonio’s experience would provide valuable mentorship to younger linemen, including incoming rookies from the draft or free-agent signings. His leadership could stabilize a unit critical to both the run and pass game.
Martin Emerson’s Recovery and Contract Uncertainty
Cornerback Martin Emerson remains in a delicate position as he recovers from a ruptured Achilles tendon sustained during training camp last July 29. With his contract expiring on March 11, his future with the Browns is uncertain. The team has yet to decide whether they will negotiate a new deal, leaving Emerson’s status “unsettled,” according to Berry.
Berry remarked,
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He’s doing a nice job with this rehab. Obviously he’s coming back from an Achilles injury. His contract is up, so we’ll have to see what that looks like in the next few weeks.
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The Browns traded Greg Newsome II to acquire Tyson Campbell, who secured a starting cornerback role opposite Denzel Ward, reducing the urgency to re-sign Emerson. Although his potential free-agent market value could be high once healthy, the Browns have not dismissed the possibility of bringing him back.
Chances for Ethan Pocic’s Return After Injury
While free agents Wyatt Teller and Jack Conklin are unlikely to rejoin the Browns, center Ethan Pocic’s future is more promising. Pocic suffered an Achilles rupture late in the 2025 season but is undergoing recovery and may be ready for the upcoming campaign. Berry noted Pocic’s determination, sharing,
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Actually got a really nice text from Ethan last week,
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and added,
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Po will do everything in his power to make sure he gets back to full health and he’ll work his tail off.
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The Browns backup center Luke Wypler, who took over after Pocic’s injury, also suffered a knee injury but is expected to recover fully. Berry said Wypler will be “ready to go.” Pocic’s contract market value is estimated around $10.6 million annually, and Berry indicated that re-signing him depends on his health progress and how free-agent markets develop.
Dawand Jones’s Rehabilitation and Role in 2026
Offensive tackle Dawand Jones, who endured a torn LCL and hamstring injury in the third week of the 2025 season, had to undergo surgery that ended his season prematurely. Jones was transitioning to right tackle to find greater success when injured. Berry reported positive progress in Jones’s rehab, stating, “He’s progressing well,” and,
“He’s been in there every day. He’s done a really nice job with his rehab. He’s right on track and I would expect him to factor in.”
The Browns are including Jones in their plans for the 2026 roster and may consider him as a potential starter at either tackle position, depending on how his recovery unfolds.
Quinshon Judkins’s Injury Recovery and Training Camp Prospects
Running back Quinshon Judkins suffered a fractured fibula and dislocated ankle in Week 14 but is expected to be ready for training camp, according to Berry. His rehabilitation is proceeding well, with Berry noting,
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He’s in the training room every day and he’s out of the boot. Actually started his running and he’s done a really nice job.
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This progress provides the Browns optimism that Judkins will compete effectively in the upcoming season.
Implications of Player Status on Browns’ 2026 Strategy
The Browns face an intense offseason with key decisions surrounding several critical players. Retaining Joel Bitonio would relieve pressure on an offensive line needing overhaul, while decisions about Martin Emerson, Ethan Pocic, and Dawand Jones will influence both defensive and offensive depth charts. The health and readiness of players like Quinshon Judkins also affect how the roster shapes up heading into training camp.
General Manager Andrew Berry’s approach of giving players the time they need to recover and decide on their futures reflects a patient but hopeful mindset as Cleveland prepares for the 2026 season. The outcomes of these evaluations will likely dictate the Browns’ draft and free-agent strategies, with significant ramifications for their competitiveness moving forward.
