Browns Legend Joel Bitonio's Retirement Decision Deadline Extended

Cleveland has extra time to work out a new deal or plan for life after the veteran guard's departure.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Cleveland Browns have agreed with veteran guard Joel Bitonio to push back the void date on his contract until the end of the league year in March, giving the team and player more time to decide on Bitonio's future. Bitonio, a Browns legend, was previously facing a February 16 deadline to either return to the team, retire, or enter free agency. This extension provides the Browns with more flexibility as they navigate a critical offseason that could see significant changes to their offensive line.

Why it matters

Keeping Bitonio would provide much-needed stability for the Browns' offensive line, which could see up to four new starters this offseason. His leadership and play have been crucial to the team's success in recent years. The Browns now have more time to work out a new deal to retain Bitonio or plan for his potential retirement, which would have a major impact on their salary cap and roster construction.

The details

The Browns and Bitonio have agreed to push back the void date on his contract until the end of the league year in March, giving the veteran guard a few extra weeks to weigh his future. This move provides the Browns' front office, led by GM Andrew Berry, with more flexibility as they navigate a critical offseason that could see significant changes to their offensive line. If Bitonio decides to return, the Browns could sign him to a one-year, $12-to-$15-million extension that would reduce his $23.5-million cap hit. If he retires, the Browns can split the $23.5-million dead cap hit over two seasons, avoiding a single year being swallowed by the dead money.

  • The original void date on Bitonio's contract was February 16, 2026.
  • The Browns and Bitonio have now agreed to push back the void date until the end of the league year in March 2026.

The players

Joel Bitonio

A veteran guard who has been a key member of the Cleveland Browns' offensive line for the past decade. Bitonio is a five-time Pro Bowler and has been a crucial part of the team's success in recent years.

Andrew Berry

The general manager of the Cleveland Browns, responsible for navigating the team's roster and salary cap decisions during the offseason.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The Browns and Bitonio will have until the start of the new league year in March to finalize a plan for the veteran guard's future, whether that's a new contract, retirement, or entering free agency.

The takeaway

The Browns' decision to extend the deadline on Bitonio's contract void date gives them more time to work out a solution that best fits the team's needs and Bitonio's desires. Retaining the veteran guard would provide much-needed stability for the offensive line, but the Browns must also be prepared for the possibility of his retirement and the impact that would have on their roster and salary cap.