The Cleveland Browns have now lost their entire offensive line from last season with one of the franchises best ever players retiring after spending 12 years, his entire career, with the team
12:52 ET, 09 Jun 2026
Shedeur Sanders has "come a long way" since last season, according to Todd Monken.
View 2 Images
Shedeur Sanders has been dealt a blow(Image: 2026 Nick Cammett)
Cleveland Browns legend Joel Bitonio has retired despite making the Pro Bowl in seven of his last eight years in the NFL. Regarded as one of the best offensive guards of the last decade, Bitonio spent his entire career with the Browns.
The former second-round pick joined the Browns in 2014, and remained incredibly loyal to the team despite their continuous losing seasons. Bitonio had just two winning years with the franchise, but never once looked to leave the team or asked to be traded.
It is just the latest blow for Shedeur Sanders, who has now lost his entire offensive line from the previous season. Fellow guard Wyatt Teller joined the Houston Texans in free agency, while starters Ethan Pocic, Jack Conklin and Cam Robinson remain free agents and are likely waiting to join a team in training camp.
Article continues below
The Browns put out a statement on losing Bitonio, who they hoped to bring back to add some continuity to their offensive line.
“Joel Bitonio set the standards for on-field excellence, professionalism and loyalty during his 12-year career with our organization," Browns general manager Andrew Berry said in a statement.
The Browns long-time captain has retired
View 2 Images
The Browns long-time captain has retired
"Few have achieved as much as Joel has during his 178 starts. With seven Pro Bowls, five All-Pro selections and being the best interior lineman at his peak, we applaud a career that should be Canton-bound.
"Everyone knows Joel's on-field accomplishments, but he was able to elevate the entire building during his tenure because he is a Hall of Fame person.
"He was our longest-tenured captain, a Walter Payton Man of the Year and his dedication to Northeast Ohio both within the walls of 76 Lou Groza Boulevard and beyond is aspirational to us all. Although Joel is now entering the next phase of his life, he will always be Browns family. We excitedly look forward to the day when he is inducted into our Ring of Honor and a Dawg Pound captain."
The Browns have reacted well to losing their entire starting line though, quietly rebuilding their offense under new head coach Todd Monken.
They used their ninth overall pick on Spencer Fano at left tackle, before signing Zion Johnson (LG) and Elgton Jenkins (C) in free agency.
They then traded for right tackle Tytus Howard, a former first-round pick, before elevating Teven Jenkins, a second-round pick, to being their starter.
Article continues below
Sanders knows he will be in a battle for the starting quarterback job, in a three-way competition alongside Deshaun Watson and Dillon Gabriel.