The Cleveland Browns had a highly disappointing NFL season, finishing with a 3-14 record in what can only be described as a disastrous campaign.
Adding to their woes, the team faces a challenging financial situation heading into the offseason, leaving little room for significant improvements.
Due to their tight salary cap, the Browns may be forced to make tough roster decisions, potentially parting ways with long-time players.
One such player is Joel Bitonio, a perennial Pro Bowl offensive lineman. According to Bleacher Report’s Alex Ballentine, both Bitonio and fellow guard Wyatt Teller could face the chopping block in the coming months, though Bitonio appears to be the more likely candidate.
“Bitonio is the more likely of the two to be moved,” Ballentine stated. “Ideally, there would be a trade market for him, but he will turn 34 next season. The Browns could only release him with a post-June 1 designation, which would free up $8.4 million in cap space, whereas a pre-June 1 cut would not provide any relief.”
Bitonio, drafted by Cleveland in 2014, is the team’s longest-tenured player. He earned six consecutive Pro Bowl selections between 2018 and 2023, including two First-Team All-Pro honors.
However, the University of Nevada product showed clear signs of decline this season and is entering the final year of his contract. Considering the Browns’ current situation, a parting of ways might be the best outcome for both sides.
