Browns' Bitonio Puzzle: Draft, Cap Hit, & Future

0:00On April 17, the Cleveland Brown's offseason puzzle around Joel Baitonio is simmering on low while they gear up for the 2026 NFL Draft. Next week in Pittsburgh, they beefed up the interior line with free agents Zion Johnson and Elton Jenkins, both versatile studs who shined at left guard, Baitonio's spot. For 12 years, and man, offer two star. But the real kicker is that $23.5 million deadcap hit on the boots for him next year. No matter if he retires or bounces. That cat bomb locked in back in March when his old deal voided, and piling on more for a guy turning 35, feels unlikely amid their youth push. That kicked off last season, Baitonio's been a rock since they drafted him in 2014, anchoring the line through thick and thin. General manager Andrew Berry shut down questions on it, cold, just saying, I don't, before pivoting fast, which screams the writings on the wall too. Insiders The whole line's still a question mark overall.

1:02With Jenkins flexible enough for center or tackle, Titus Howard eyed at right tackle but maybe flipping. Left, leaving spots wide open. If the season dropped today, they probably slot Jenkins at center, Teven Jenkins at right guard, and Dewan Jones at left tackle, but with nine, draft picks, their hunting competition everywhere. Post draft, that door on Baitonio might slam shut for good, wrapping this saga in their rear view, as Cleveland builds fresh for the long haul.