Cleveland Browns: Grading the moves from Day 1 of free agency
Re-signing of Joel Bitonio
Adam Schefter was the first to report the massive contract extension for Joel Bitonio.
Browns are giving Joel Bitonio a 5-year, $51 million extension that includes $23 million guaranteed, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 9, 2017
In addition to signing two starting offensive lineman in J.C . Tretter and Kevin Zeitler, the team prioritized keeping their own young talent. The team announced the contract extension of young talented offensive guard Joel Bitonio.
OFFICIAL: We've signed OL @JoelBitonio to a 5-year contract extension
— Cleveland Browns (@Browns) March 9, 2017
Details » https://t.co/ToqASGgIoy pic.twitter.com/JB1OqmFZ7w
Bitonio was a second-round draft selection by the Browns in 2014 and instantly became a top offensive guard around the league. As a rookie in 2014, Bitonio was named to the Pro Football Writer’s Association All-AFC team and All-Rookie teams. Bitonio has suffered lower body injuries in each of the last two seasons missing 17 total games. They key for Bitonio will to remain healthy, finding his All-Pro rookie form.
Next: Browns off to fast start in free agency
GRADE: A
Bitonio is one of the most talented players on the Browns roster. At 25 years old the team locked up the talented lineman before he gets to the open market. The team has struggled to keep their own talent in recent seasons and this shows the front office’s desire to keep their own talent.