Overview
- Bitonio announced his retirement on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, in a written letter posted on the Browns’ official website that said he never saw himself in another uniform.
- The 34-year-old started every one of his 178 games for Cleveland after being drafted in the second round in 2014 and earned seven Pro Bowl nods plus multiple All-Pro selections.
- Bitonio said recurring knee and back wear factored into his decision and he declined to pursue offers elsewhere, choosing to retire as a Brown rather than chase a Super Bowl with another team.
- General manager Andrew Berry praised Bitonio’s excellence, leadership and loyalty and signaled franchise honors such as the Ring of Honor and Hall of Fame consideration for his career.
- Cleveland has already added starters in free agency and the draft this offseason, and Bitonio’s retirement confirms an open starting guard spot as the Browns move ahead with their offensive-line rebuild.