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Joel Bitonio's Future Uncertain Amid Contract Extension Talks

2/18/2026

50 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Left guard Joel Bitonio has not decided whether to play in 2026, with a March deadline.
The Browns and Bitonio extended the contract's void date, opening room for a potential extension.
If it voided, Cleveland would face more than $23 million in dead money on the 2026 cap.
Bitonio considered retirement after the 2024 season but returned to improve as Cleveland went 5-12.

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Story summary

Left guard Joel Bitonio has not decided whether to play in 2026, with a March deadline.
The Browns and Bitonio extended the contract's void date, opening room for a potential extension.
If it voided, Cleveland would face more than $23 million in dead money on the 2026 cap.
Bitonio considered retirement after the 2024 season but returned to improve as Cleveland went 5-12.