BEREA, Ohio — Veteran guard Joel Bitonio is set to rejoin the Cleveland Browns for his 12th season with the franchise. The team confirmed Bitonio’s decision on Wednesday, marking his return to the field where he has spent his entire professional career since being drafted in 2014.
Selected as the 35th overall pick in the second round, Bitonio contemplated his return following the previous season, choosing to weigh his options for a couple of months before arriving at a conclusion. During the last season, Bitonio showcased his durability and commitment by playing a personal best of 1,177 offensive snaps and starting in all 17 games. Despite the Browns ending with a 3-14 record after making it to the playoffs in 2023, Bitonio remains under contract for another year.
Bitonio’s performance over the years has earned him significant accolades, including two All-Pro selections and seven Pro Bowl honors. He has been a solid backbone for the team’s offensive line, with his impressive 161 starts placing him 13th in the Browns’ franchise history. Among the post-1999 Cleveland Browns players, Bitonio stands just behind Hall of Fame tackle Joe Thomas, who holds the record with 167 starts.
