Joel Bitonio, offensive lineman for the Cleveland Browns, considered ending his NFL career after the 2024 season. However, following conversations with head coach Kevin Stefanski and the addition of new offensive line coach Mike Bloomgren, Bitonio resolved to extend his playing career for at least one more year. His decision came after a frustrating 2023 season that led him to question his future in the league.
Frustration and Reflection After a Challenging Season
Bitonio expressed the difficulty he faced after a disappointing 2023 campaign where the Browns lost 14 games after previously enjoying success. He said,
“It was tough. I did give consideration to retiring,”
reflecting on the emotional toll of the season. Bitonio admitted his frustration contributed to his uncertainty, saying,
“I was frustrated. Now, I don’t know if I would have the same conversation if we had gone to the playoffs again, and maybe were a 10-win team.”
The veteran acknowledged the stark contrast between a successful year and the struggles that followed, which made him reevaluate why he kept playing.
Discussing his decision to stay, Bitonio pointed to his discussions with Stefanski and the arrival of Bloomgren. He noted the team’s plans, including advancing offensive coordinator Tommy Rees and drafting a quarterback, influenced his choice positively. He said,
“I wanted to go out on a higher note than what we experienced last year.”
Jaire Alexander’s Contract Dispute and Family Response
Elsewhere in the NFL, Jaire Alexander recently signed with the Baltimore Ravens after reportedly resisting a pay cut from the Green Bay Packers. Alexander’s father, Landis Alexander, publicly challenged the narrative framing his son’s contract situation. He emphasized that Jaire understood the need to take reduced guaranteed money due to his injury history and criticized the portrayal suggesting they refused a pay cut.
I get that part, but I don’t like that narrative that was put out there (saying) we didn’t want to take a pay cut. That’s just ridiculous because, in business, you have to be available, not half the season. (The signing team wants) you out there. Injuries happen, and he’s not able to do that. We get the fact that you don’t want to pay ($17 million in guarantees), but we definitely don’t want zero,
—Landis Alexander, Father of Jaire Alexander
Aaron Rodgers Expected to Boost Steelers Despite Mobility Concerns
In other NFL news, veteran quarterback Aaron Rodgers is joining the Pittsburgh Steelers for the 2024 season, marking his 21st year in the league. Interviews with anonymous coaches and executives suggest Rodgers is regarded as the best quarterback the Steelers have had since Ben Roethlisberger. One offensive coach remarked,
“He’s still throwing the s— out of the ball, honestly,”
and added,
“He’s the best quarterback they’ve had since [Ben Roethlisberger]. We will see how the body holds up, but I think he’s going to help them immensely.”
While Rodgers’ limited mobility raises some concerns, an AFC executive highlighted the positive impact of his arm strength and field vision. The executive stated,
“Look, the mobility is an issue, there’s no doubt, but where he helps them is with the plus arm strength and the field vision from the pocket. They haven’t had that. I’m not sure that will be enough, but the offense will be at least respectable.”
Implications for the Browns and NFL Landscape in 2024
Joel Bitonio’s decision to continue playing despite contemplating retirement reflects the intense pressure and uncertainty experienced by veteran players after tough seasons. The Browns’ changes in coaching staff and plans to revitalize their offense offer a hopeful outlook for a turnaround. For Bitonio, the choice to persevere signals his commitment to finishing his career on a stronger note.
Meanwhile, ongoing contract negotiations and team changes across the league, as seen with Jaire Alexander and Aaron Rodgers, emphasize the complexity and high stakes of NFL roster management in 2024. Rodgers’ anticipated role with the Steelers may inject new life into their offense, while Alexander’s contract situation highlights the business realities athletes face.