Home / Sports / Bitonio Hangs Up Cleats After 12 Seasons
Bitonio Hangs Up Cleats After 12 Seasons
9 Jun
Summary
- Bitonio, 34, retired after 12 NFL seasons with the Cleveland Browns.
- He earned seven Pro Bowl nods and five All-Pro selections in his career.
- He is the new-era Browns' leader in games played with 178.
Longtime Cleveland Browns guard Joel Bitonio officially announced his retirement from the NFL on Tuesday after a distinguished 12-season career. The 34-year-old played his entire professional tenure with the Browns, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and five All-Pro honors. Bitonio leaves the game as the new-era Browns' leader in games played, with 178 appearances.
Bitonio's decision comes as the Browns prepare for mandatory minicamp under new coach Todd Monken. The offensive lineman's final seasons were marked by playing through discomfort, including lingering back tightness he referred to as "old man's back," yet he consistently performed at a high level. He notably passed former teammate Joe Thomas for the record in games played since 1999 last season, a moment he described as particularly special.
Having considered retirement after the 2024 season, Bitonio opted to play one more year, feeling physically capable of the challenge. He emphasized his commitment to family and assessing his options before making a final decision. Bitonio's departure will necessitate significant changes to the Browns' starting offensive line, with at least four new starters expected next season.
