Joel Bitonio jokes about draft class during retirement announcement
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 12:05 AM
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
All-Pro guard Joel Bitonio announced his retirement from the NFL on June 11, 2026, ending a 12-year career with the Cleveland Browns. In his retirement speech, Bitonio humorously referenced his draft class, noting his experience rooming with Johnny Manziel. He stated, "I learned some things NOT to do from him," highlighting the mixed success of the 2014 draft class, which included players like Justin Gilbert and Christian Kirksey.
- •Bitonio played 12 seasons exclusively with the Browns.
- •He was drafted in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft.
- •Only a few players from his draft class had notable careers.
- •Bitonio has been recognized as an All-Pro during his tenure.
- •He emphasized learning from experiences with Manziel during his career.
- 12:05 AMYahoo Sports — Browns legend Joel Bitonio cracks joke about his draft class
"During his retirement speech the Browns legend provided a good laugh.
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