Bitonio, 34, has teased retirement for the second consecutive offseason, but he did return for a 12th season last year, starting all 17 games despite injuries and helping a Browns line that finished 5-12. He appeared emotional at the end of the 2025 season, leaving the door open to a final decision in the near future.
The Browns’ recruitment extends beyond Thomas. Head coach Todd Monken has already spoken directly to Bitonio, praising his football intelligence, work ethic, and rare intangibles. Warhop’s reintroduction to Cleveland’s coaching staff is a key thread in the push to bring Bitonio back, given Warhop’s prior impact on the line.
Cleveland has been actively overhauling the offensive line, adding marked upgrades including Texans tackle Tytus Howard, interior lineman Zion Johnson, and veteran Elgton Jenkins. Johnson has expressed admiration for Bitonio and acknowledged the opportunity to learn from a player of Bitonio’s caliber if he returns.
With Bitonio’s status as an unrestricted free agent and his contract voided at the start of the league year, the Browns are positioning to rely on his leadership and experience as they rebuild the line, while evaluating further moves with one or both first-round picks likely to be invested in O-line talent.
