Browns Extend Void Date on Joel Bitonio's Contract

Move gives veteran guard more time to decide on playing future

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

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The Cleveland Browns have agreed to push back the void date on left guard Joel Bitonio's contract, giving him more time to decide whether he will play in the 2026 season or retire. The contract was previously set to void on Monday, but the new agreement moves the void date to just before the start of the 2026 league year in March.

Why it matters

This decision allows the Browns to avoid a significant salary cap hit of over $23 million in 2026 if Bitonio's contract were to void. It also gives the veteran guard more flexibility to potentially sign an extension with the team if he decides to continue playing.

The details

Bitonio, who has been with the Browns since being drafted in 2014, contemplated retirement after the 2024 season but ultimately returned in hopes of ending his career on a high note. However, the Browns struggled to a 5-12 record and finished at the bottom of the AFC North division in 2025.

  • Bitonio's previous contract was set to void on Monday, February 17, 2026.
  • The new agreement pushes the void date to just before the start of the 2026 league year in March.

The players

Joel Bitonio

A veteran left guard who has played for the Cleveland Browns since being drafted in 2014.

Cleveland Browns

The NFL franchise based in Cleveland, Ohio that competes in the AFC North division.

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What they’re saying

“Bitonio contemplated retirement after the 2024 season before returning in hopes of going out on a 'higher note.'”

— Josh Alper, Author (nbcsports.com)

What’s next

The Browns and Bitonio will now have until March to potentially negotiate a contract extension that would allow the team to avoid the $23 million in dead cap if Bitonio decides to retire.

The takeaway

This move by the Browns gives them more flexibility to retain a key veteran offensive lineman, while also providing Bitonio with additional time to make a decision on his playing future after contemplating retirement following the 2024 season.