Browns great Joel Bitonio retires after 12 seasons, leaving behind a lasting legacy in Cleveland

The Cleveland Browns are saying goodbye to one of the most respected players in franchise history. Veteran left guard Joel Bitonio officially announced his retirement Tuesday, ending a remarkable 12-year NFL career spent entirely in Cleveland. The 34-year-old was selected by the Browns with the 35th overall pick in the 2014 NFL Draft and became one of the league’s most consistent offensive linemen.

Bitonio leaves the game as a seven-time Pro Bowler, tied with Myles Garrett for the fourth-most Pro Bowl selections in Browns history. He also earned five All-Pro honors, including First-Team All-Pro recognition in both 2021 and 2022, solidifying his reputation as one of the NFL’s premier interior linemen.

Over his career, Bitonio started all 178 games he played, setting the Browns’ post-1999 franchise record for starts. He was a cornerstone of Cleveland’s offensive line and played a major role in helping the franchise return to the playoffs after years of struggles. His leadership became even more important following the retirement of Hall of Fame tackle Joe Thomas in 2017.

Walks away as one of Cleveland’s all-time greats

In a retirement letter posted on the Browns’ website, Bitonio reflected on his loyalty to the organization, saying he never truly envisioned playing for another team. Despite having opportunities to pursue a championship elsewhere, he chose to retire as a Brown.

Browns General Manager Andrew Berry praised Bitonio’s impact both on and off the field, calling him a player whose career should be “Canton-bound.” Berry also noted that Bitonio’s professionalism, leadership, and commitment to Northeast Ohio made him one of the most respected figures in franchise history.

While the Browns enter a new era without one of their longtime leaders, Bitonio’s legacy is secure. He retires as a Cleveland icon, a model of consistency, and one of the greatest offensive linemen ever to wear the orange and brown.

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