For the second consecutive offseason, the Cleveland Browns are holding their breath as All-Pro guard Joel Bitonio contemplates retirement. Finally, there is an update. A Cleveland reporter has shared fresh details, and the team has also made an official contract move that matters.

“His deadline was supposed to be coming up…they’ve extended the deadline,” a Cleveland reporter said in an X clip on Cleveland ESPN. “That tells me that Joe Batonio is thinking about returning. I’m sure he likes the offensive line coach, Warhop. I’m sure he’s intrigued to play for a new offense, maybe a new coach. I’m guessing he’s waiting to see what his body is telling him. But I think that’s encouraging news.”

While no definitive update has arrived, the reporter is confident that this is a positive step on the retirement stance. Extending the deadline would mean that the decision is still being considered. That would be a lot better than what the Browns fans fear. Furthermore, they spoke about the franchise’s dead cap situation.

“Remember, if he comes back, he does the Browns a big favor. Number one, he anchors that offensive line, which has to be remade. Number two, I think there’s like $27 million in dead cap space for Joel.”

For the second year in a row, Joel Bitonio has taken time to think about retirement. Even while playing through injuries, he did not miss a single game in 2025 and started all 17 during the Browns’ 5-12 campaign. Since entering the league in 2014, he has been a steady leader and multi-time Pro Bowler on the offensive line.

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Even after a tough 2024 season, Joel Bitonio chose not to retire. He mentioned not wanting to leave with a “bitter taste” in his mouth after last year’s three-win season. This year, with the team performing better, speculation about him wanting to stay grew stronger.

As per the X clip, the new coaching staff could influence Bitonio’s decision, especially veteran offensive line coach George Warhop, whose experience brings stability and guidance.

Bitonio would perhaps want to keep playing rather than leave with regrets, especially after missing out on the playoffs last season. Financially, if he retires, the Browns would also face a large 2026 salary cap hit.

The Browns are already staring down a brutal 2026 cap crunch, with just about $3.2 million in wiggle room. Deshaun Watson’s final-year cap hit of over $80 million already complicates matters. Now add Joel Bitonio into the mix: his contract’s void years and prorated bonuses could blow up if he retires, leaving the Browns with a staggering $23.5 million dead-cap hit.

Moreover, the Browns’ offensive line has dealt with injuries and inconsistency. Losing a veteran like Bitonio would create a major gap. His experience and leadership have helped protect quarterbacks and open lanes in the run game. For now, though, an extension has bought time for the franchise.

Cleveland Browns buy time as Joel Bitonio weighs retirement decision

The Cleveland Browns made another important move as Joel Bitonio weighs his future. Instead of letting his contract void this week, the team chose to adjust the timeline.

That decision shows they are still serious about keeping their veteran left guard in the mix for 2026. Cleveland Browns reporter Daniel Oyefusi shared the update on X on Wednesday.

“The Browns and LG Joel Bitonio agreed to move the void date on his contract to the start of the new league year in March, as @ByJasonLloyd first reported. His contract was initially supposed to void on Monday,” the X post read.

This quote confirms that both sides are working together. Instead of rushing into an outcome, they agreed to buy more time. Moving the void date means the contract will now stay active until the new league year begins in March. That keeps the door open for Bitonio to either return or make a final call on retirement.

In the end, the decision rests with Bitonio and his health. The Browns seem to be patient on the matter, giving the player their space. If he returns, he brings stability and leadership, but if he walks away, Cleveland must move forward without one of its most trusted players.