With Joel Bitonio’s Retirement, Browns’ Offensive Line Left With A Big Hole

Joel Bitonio announced his retirement last week, closing the book on a remarkable 12-year career that made him one of the most respected players in Cleveland Browns history and one of the best guards in the NFL.

Bitonio spent his entire career with the Browns after being selected in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft out of the University of Nevada. He became a cornerstone of Cleveland’s offensive line and was one of the league’s most consistent players.

The Browns have a reputation for great linemen like Joe Thomas, who spent his whole career in Cleveland but never played in a playoff game. During his career, Bitonio earned seven Pro Bowl selections and five first-team All-Pro honors. His durability, leadership and elite play helped establish Cleveland’s offensive line as one of the league’s best units for several seasons.

Bitonio did it all for Cleveland. He was great with his technique, excelling in both run and pass blocking. He says he’s proud to have spent his entire career as a Cleveland Brown.

Few players experienced as many highs and lows in Browns football as Bitonio. He joined the franchise in 2014 during a difficult rebuilding year—when they drafted Johnny Manziel in the first round and Bitonio in the second. Teammates consistently praised his professionalism and leadership on and off the field.

He’s one of the greatest guards—if not the greatest—to ever play for the Browns. Younger players looked up to Bitonio and viewed him as a mentor both on and off the field.

Replacing a player like Bitonio will be a difficult challenge for Cleveland. He started more than 170 games during his career and was widely regarded as one of the league’s top interior offensive linemen.

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