The Cleveland Browns face uncertainty over Joel Bitonio’s presence on their roster past the 2025 season as the veteran guard enters free agency. Despite new head coach Todd Monken’s efforts to persuade Bitonio to remain with the team, reports indicate the player might retire or sign elsewhere for the 2026 season.
According to Browns insider Zac Jackson of The Athletic, Bitonio’s next moves remain undecided, though the possibility of retirement or joining another franchise seems more likely than a return to Cleveland.
Bitonio’s Career and Contract Situation
Joel Bitonio has been a foundational member of the Browns since being picked in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft. Recognized as a seven-time Pro Bowler, Bitonio has played in more games than any other player in the Browns’ recent era. The guard is eligible for free agency for the first time if he decides to play a 13th NFL season.
Bitonio and the Browns agreed to delay a decision on the void years clause in his contract until March 10, allowing both sides additional time to consider their options.
If Bitonio chooses retirement, he would secure his status as one of the franchise’s all-time greats, something that insiders believe is his current inclination.
New Head Coach Todd Monken’s Efforts to Retain Bitonio
Todd Monken, hired as Cleveland’s new head coach, has expressed a strong desire to keep Bitonio on the roster. Understanding the veteran’s importance to the team’s offensive line, Monken has personally reached out to encourage Bitonio’s comeback for the 2026 season.
Monken described Bitonio as an extraordinary player with a unique mentality and preparation standards, emphasizing his durability and consistency over 12 NFL seasons despite the physical demands of his position.
“He came up to the office a few weeks ago and we tried to talk him into it right then, but he was not in that position yet to say he wanted to come back.” – Todd Monken, Head Coach
“I’m for really good football players and I’m for really good football players that are wired like Joel. There’s not many wired like Joel. What he says, how he carries himself, how he prepares. I mean, it’s unbelievable. He’s rare, 12 years and the pounding he’s taken and continued to play at such a high level.” – Todd Monken, Head Coach
General Manager Andrew Berry’s Perspective on Bitonio’s Future
At the NFL Draft Combine, Browns general manager Andrew Berry reiterated the team’s intent to keep Bitonio, acknowledging the guard’s deliberations about his football future are complex and ongoing.
“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.” – Andrew Berry, Browns GM
While the Browns hope to retain him, Bitonio’s status as a free agent means he could attract significant interest from other teams. Given that he has yet to win a Super Bowl, pursuing a championship opportunity elsewhere remains a potential motivator.
Implications for the Browns’ Upcoming Offseason
The outcome of Bitonio’s decision will have a considerable impact on the Browns’ offseason plans and the construction of their offensive line moving forward. Losing a longtime cornerstone could prompt Cleveland to explore alternatives through the draft, trades, or free agency.
Bitonio’s possible departure also raises questions about team leadership and continuity, adding a layer of complexity to the Browns’ preparation for the 2026 campaign.
As the March 10 deadline approaches, both Bitonio and the Browns remain in discussions, leaving fans and analysts awaiting a pivotal announcement that could shape the team’s future trajectory.
