What happened: Longtime Cleveland Browns guard Joel Bitonio announced his retirement from the NFL, sharing a farewell message addressed to the city and the Dawg Pound. The announcement was relayed by ESPN's Adam Schefter. Bitonio spent his entire career in Cleveland as a fixture along the offensive line.
Why it matters: Bitonio's departure removes a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a longtime leader from the Browns' offensive front heading into the 2026 season. His exit leaves a significant void in both production and locker-room presence on a unit that had relied on his consistency for years.
By the numbers: Bitonio is a seven-time Pro Bowl guard, having spent his entire NFL career with the Cleveland Browns.
What to watch: Watch how Cleveland reshuffles its offensive line and whether the Browns address the interior in free agency or the draft ahead of the 2026 season.