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Parker Brailsford positioned for Browns' starting role after Bitonio retires

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 10, 2026, 1:01 PM

Last updated Jun 10, 2026

Parker Brailsford positioned for Browns' starting role after Bitonio retires

Summary

Cleveland Browns veteran Joel Bitonio announced his retirement, opening opportunities for rookie Parker Brailsford. Following a significant offseason where the team added key offensive line players, including Elgton Jenkins and Zion Johnson, Brailsford could step into a starting center role. He impressed during practices, gaining first-team reps. However, his development in run blocking will be crucial as training camp progresses, especially with competition from Luke Wypler.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Joel Bitonio retires, affecting the Browns' offensive line for 2026.
•Parker Brailsford could become the starting center after gaining first-team reps.
•Cleveland added offensive linemen Elgton Jenkins and Zion Johnson this offseason.
•Brailsford's run blocking needs improvement to secure a larger role.
•Training camp performance will be critical for Brailsford's starting chances.

Latest Updates

1:01 PMYahoo Sports — How Browns' Parker Brailsford benefits from Joel Bitonio's retirement

What they're saying

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With Cleveland Browns' veteran Joel Bitonio announcing his retirement on Tuesday, the door has now opened for Parker Brailsford to start in 2026.
— Yahoo Sports

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