The Cleveland Browns are enduring a tough season, sitting at 3-8.
However, the team has shown renewed energy with Jameis Winston stepping in at quarterback, securing critical victories over their rivals, the Baltimore Ravens and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Winston’s success in replacing the injured Deshaun Watson has been aided by improved health along the offensive line, with veteran left guard Joel Bitonio providing vital consistency.
At 33, Bitonio’s future with the team is uncertain as another challenging season unfolds.
On a recent episode of The Return With Josh & Maria Cribbs, producer Ryan Tyler speculated about Bitonio’s potential retirement, saying, “He’s probably gonna retire, I would imagine. I don’t know how you would want to play football anymore after this year.”
A second-round pick from Nevada in 2014, Bitonio has been a cornerstone of the Browns’ offensive line, navigating the team’s highs and lows while becoming one of the NFL’s premier guards.
Over the last decade, he has earned six Pro Bowl selections and two first-team All-Pro honors, both achieved within the past six seasons.
Bitonio still has one year remaining on his contract with a $22.9 million cap hit for 2025. If retirement is on his mind, it’s likely a decision he would delay until after the next season.