Bitonio’s contract has already voided, making him an unrestricted free agent and triggering $23.5 million in dead cap for Cleveland. In the meantime, the Browns have moved to rebuild the offensive line, adding Zion Johnson and Elgton Jenkins in free agency and trading for Tytus Howard to bolster the tackle spots. Cleveland emphasized versatility among those new additions, noting they can play multiple spots along the line as needed.
Berry described Bitonio as a foundational player who has earned the right to decide his timeline. “Joel has been a foundational player for the organization … He needs to make the decision on his own timeline, just simple as that,” Berry said. The Browns say they will be ready to proceed either way, keeping the door open for a possible return while continuing to position the line for the long term.
There is speculation that Bitonio could seek a contender if he chooses to play on, but no firm reports have connected him to another team. Bitonio, 34, has spent 12 seasons in Cleveland, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and two All-Pro nods. Even in a challenging season, he remained highly regarded, with a standout scoring by Pro Football Focus and praise from head coach Todd Monken for his leadership and durability.
Monken added that Bitonio’s mindset and preparation set him apart, noting that while Bitonio isn’t ready to commit to a return, “there’s not many wired like Joel.” The Browns’ approach, then, is to navigate the draft period with a plan that accommodates both the possibility of Bitonio’s return and a clear path forward without him.
As the NFL Draft approaches, Cleveland’s stance is to be ready for either outcome. The Bitonio situation remains a talent-level question and a longer-term roster decision for the Browns, who are balancing a potential return with a broader retooling of an offensive line built to withstand future seasons.
