Browns Are ‘Optimistic’ About Joel Bitonio’s Return
The Cleveland Browns have some big decisions to make in the offseason.
They desperately need to revamp their offensive line.
Their struggles at both tackle positions are evident, and as good a player as he might turn out to be, they can’t afford to bank all their hopes on Dawand Jones staying healthy.
More than that, Joel Bitonio’s potential retirement decision is also looming over the organization.
The veteran guard admitted that he has no intention of being a part of a rebuilding team.
Fortunately for the team, it seems like the future Hall of Famer is currently leaning towards running it back.
According to a report by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, Bitonio is leaning towards playing another year.
“The Browns are optimistic about guard Joel Bitonio’s return for a 12th season, though he hasn’t made a firm determination yet. But the team is loosely planning for him to return and isn’t aggressively combing the guard market at this time,” Fowler said.
Of course, even if that’s the case, the Browns still need to figure out a potential replacement for the future.
He’s coming off a down year, and Father Time may have finally caught up to him.
Even so, it’s always vital to have proven veterans and strong leaders in the locker room.
We saw how Jason Kelce took Cam Jurgens under his wing and mentored him to be his replacement, and Bitonio could do the same for whoever they bring in.
This team failed to give the quarterback any sort of protection, and the running game constantly collapsed against stacked boxes.
Until they solve those issues, making the playoffs might be out of the question.
“The Browns will consider cost when it comes to the quarterback market, given they still owe injured Watson that $92 million over the next two years. People I’ve talked to expect Daniel Jones to be on their radar, along with Kirk Cousins if he becomes available (though, surprisingly, not every team official is buying that the Falcons will just cut him outright, despite the significant money owed to him). Another name to watch here is Carson Wentz,” Fowler said.
