Joel Bitonio

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

Joel Bitonio's $0.8M deal with Cleveland earns a C+ CVI, representing solid value for a veteran guard on what appears to be a minimum salary arrangement. The Browns are getting an above-average starter at guard for essentially replacement-level money, making this a clear steal if Bitonio can maintain his recent form. At 33, the former Pro Bowler is in the twilight of his career but has shown remarkable durability and consistency throughout his decade in Cleveland, starting 16 games in four of the last five seasons. The low-risk contract structure gives Cleveland maximum flexibility while securing a reliable presence on their offensive line without hampering their salary cap. This deal reflects smart roster management by the Browns, who recognized they could retain a quality veteran at a bargain rate while he transitions toward a potential retirement. For a team trying to maximize talent around Deshaun Watson's hefty contract, locking up Bitonio at this price point is exactly the type of efficient spending that builds competitive depth.

Performance Analysis

Joel Bitonio's F grade is misleading without context — this is a future Hall of Fame guard whose statistical profile in our system bottoms out because he's at the tail end of a legendary career with the Browns. Six Pro Bowl selections and consistently elite play over a decade-plus in Cleveland speak for themselves. Bitonio has been the gold standard for interior offensive line play, combining technique, intelligence, and durability in a way few guards ever have. If this is indeed the end of the road, he goes out as one of the best to ever play the position. The grade reflects current-season production metrics, not the body of work that will land him in Canton.