Cleveland Browns guard Joel Bitonio has announced his retirement from the NFL after 12 seasons. The seven-time Pro Bowler and five-time All-Pro made the decision official on June 9, closing out a standout career in Cleveland.

A highly decorated career saw him win many accolades- All-Pros, Pro Bowls, snap streaks, and playoff appearances. Yet there was one dream that remained unfulfilled.

"There was only one thing left that I still hoped to accomplish: a Super Bowl," wrote Bitonio. "A small part of me thought about wanting to chase that dream, but at the end of the day, my heart was set on being a Cleveland Brown for life."

That is one regret Bitonio will carry with him. Though he did come close to winning the Super Bowl on two occasions. In 2020, the Browns went 11-5. Bitonio missed that game due to COVID protocols but returned for the Divisional Round. Cleveland's season ultimately ended after a 22-17 loss against the Kansas City Chiefs.

The last one happened in 2023, where they made the playoffs but again were eliminated after losing against the Houston Texans. Bitonio experienced his playoff football but never reached the Super Bowl stage.

However, instead of pursuing opportunities with Super Bowl-caliber teams, Bitonio decided to stay in Cleveland. Even though other paths may have offered a clearer shot at a championship, he stayed committed to the Browns.

"This city was where my NFL career was supposed to start and finish. For that dream to be a reality, I could not be more grateful," he wrote.

Meanwhile, the Browns general manager even lauded his contribution to the Browns with a special message.

Browns GM Praises Joel Bitonio On His Illustrious Career

Cleveland general manager Andrew Berry has seen Bitonio start his career in Cleveland and talked about the latter's influence on the roster.

"Joel Bitonio set the standards for on-field excellence, professionalism, and loyalty during his 12-year career with our organization," said Berry. "Few have achieved as much as Joel has during his 178 starts. With seven Pro Bowls, five All-Pro selections, and being the best interior lineman at his peak, we applaud a career that should be Canton-bound."

Coming in as a second-round pick in 2014, Bitonio became an immediate starter. He was the force behind the Cleveland offense. Bitonio even surpassed Joe Thomas for the most starts for the Browns (178).

He also served as the team captain on six separate occasions. For his community service and professionalism, he won the Walter Payton Man of the Year (team award).

Looking back, Bitonio's career may have ended, but he is leaving behind quite a rich legacy. Zion Johnson will have big shoes to fill in his absence.

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Written by

Sourav Ganguly

Edited by

Soheli Tarafdar