Cleveland Browns' Joel Bitonio confirms his 2025 return! Learn how the 12-year vet impacts the Browns' new run-heavy offense for the upcoming NFL season. (June 2, 2025)
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
Dawg Pound, rejoice! The heart and soul of the Cleveland Browns offensive line, Joel Bitonio, officially announced his return for the 2025 season on Monday. Entering his remarkable 12th year in the orange and brown, Bitonio's decision, driven by his enduring passion for the game, brings a wave of stability and leadership as the team looks to redefine its offensive identity.
My desire to play football is still there. I want to be out there, I want to compete. - Joel Bitonio on Sports4CLE
In a much-anticipated interview on Sports4CLE Monday, veteran guard Joel Bitonio confirmed he'll be suiting up for his 12th season with the Cleveland Browns. Citing his continued desire to play football as the primary driver, Bitonio's return is massive news for an offensive line that relies heavily on his experience and Pro Bowl-caliber play. He also touched upon the Browns' offensive identity for 2025, hinting at a team ready to impose its will and lean on its strengths.
Speaking of offensive identity, the message coming out of Berea, and echoed on Sports4CLE, is clear: the run game will be paramount in 2025. This isn't just talk; it's a strategic imperative. Looking back at 2024, Jerome Ford led the charge with 565 yards and 3 touchdowns on 104 carries, while a recovering Nick Chubb still managed an impactful 332 yards and 3 TDs on 102 carries despite limited action. Imagine a fully healthy Chubb alongside Ford, behind a Bitonio-led line – that's a recipe for a dominant ground attack. The emphasis on the run is a clear signal of the team's offensive philosophy moving forward.
On the other side of the ball, cornerback Greg Newsome II joined Sports4CLE to shed light on the Browns secondary and their collective mindset for the upcoming season. Newsome emphasized the unit's preparation and high expectations, suggesting a defensive backfield that's hungry and focused. With talent across the board, the secondary aims to be a true 'no-fly zone' for opposing offenses in 2025, building on past successes and striving for even greater consistency and game-changing plays.
While the on-field product is shaping up, the front office is always playing chess with the salary cap. Sports4CLE also provided an update on the Browns' 2025 salary cap situation on their June 2nd show. The segment analyzed the team's current financial standing, which is always a crucial backdrop. These numbers will inevitably influence roster decisions, potential extensions, and any late free-agent acquisitions as Andrew Berry and the front office continue to build a competitive roster.
With Bitonio anchoring the line, a renewed focus on the run game, and a confident secondary, the pieces are falling into place for an intriguing 2025 Cleveland Browns season. The coming weeks will likely bring more clarity on roster moves as the team navigates the salary cap, but for now, the return of a legend and a clear offensive vision are causes for optimism in the Dawg Pound.
