Joel Bitonio's Legacy with the Browns

Joel Bitonio, the Browns’ legendary guard who spent his entire 12-year NFL career with Cleveland, officially retired Monday — a legacy built on seven Pro Bowls, five All-Pro honors, and unmatched durability protecting 22 starting QBs. Owner Jimmy Haslam called him Hall of Fame-worthy, comparing him to Cleveland icons like Joe Thomas and Jim Brown, while Bitonio himself acknowledged the historical underappreciation of interior linemen — a gap he hopes future generations address. Proud of his impact, he and his family plan to stay in Northeast Ohio, with many calling for his induction into the Browns Ring of Honor. Bitonio shared wisdom from teammates like Alex Mack and Joe Thomas, plus hilarious lessons from roommates like Johnny Manziel, and praised the new coaching staff under Todd Monken for building a positive future. The Browns, Haslam said, are now hunting for more professionals like Bitonio — on and off the field — to carry his legacy forward. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/0432baf14ef497ef