Joel Bitonio retires, impacting 49ers' offensive line plans

Veteran offensive lineman Joel Bitonio announced his retirement from the NFL after 12 seasons with the Cleveland Browns. Though he was an unrestricted free agent this offseason and drew some speculation about potentially joining the San Francisco 49ers, there was no formal interest reported from the team. At 34, Bitonio was a seven-time Pro Bowl selection and a two-time first-team All-Pro. With his retirement, the 49ers will need to explore other options for their left guard position, currently filled by 2025 seventh-round pick Connor Colby, who has limited experience in the NFL.

• 10:26 PMYahoo Sports — Potential 49ers free-agent target retires from NFL