Quarterback Jared Goff's struggles were pronounced because of bad protection from the trenches throughout the season. To ensure the signal-caller is able to improve this season, the Lions might be looking at a former Cleveland Browns starter.

Detroit was active in the offensive lineman position in free agency. They have now bolstered their O-line with Cade Mays, Larry Borom, and Juice Scruggs. But according to TWSN, the team could also consider free agent Joel Bitonio.

The 34-year-old OL was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 2014 NFL draft as a 35th overall pick in the 2nd round. Throughout his career, he remained with the Browns and played 176 games for them. 

In the last season, he played 17 games, and holds a Pro Football Focus(PFF) grade of 70.7 while playing for 1081 snaps. 

But why Bitonio again?

Head coach Dan Campbell prefers gritty players on both sides of the ball, and Bitonio can fulfill this aspiration. Bitonio is a seasoned lineman, and is the 8th-best offensive guard among 81 others according to PFF. 

Bitonio’s stats say it all. With a pass protection grade of 75.7 and a run block grade of 64.4, QB Jared Goff gets the protection to do what he does best. He couldn't do that last season and was sacked 38 times (8th-highest total in the league).

Bitonio has never won a Super Bowl, and is towards the end of his career. But being a seven-time Pro Bowl selection means that he does have some caliber that the Lions could utilize.

Why the Detroit Lions Are Revisiting Joel Bitonio This Time

The interest in Joel Bitonio isn’t new for the Detroit Lions, but the timing now feels very different.

The Lions aren’t building anymore; they’re trying to win. That changes how GM Brad Holmes looks at players like Bitonio. Experience, consistency, and reliability carry more weight when your window is open.

And that’s where Bitonio fits. He’s not being viewed as a long-term project. He’s a plug-and-play guard who can step in and stabilize the interior right away. The Lions' O-line allowed 215 pressures in 2025. 46 were given up in the last four games for the season. Bitonio, with his elite grades, should help improve these numbers.

Detroit has talent up front, but keeping that unit strong through a full season is just as important as the starting five. Injuries, rotations, and late-season wear always come into play. Bringing in a veteran like Bitonio gives them insurance without changing the identity of the offense.

What do you think the Lions should attempt to sign Bitonio? Share your thoughts in the comments.

For all Lions updates, follow the Detroit Lions Community!

Written by

Kunwar Yashaswee Chhaunker

Edited by

Afreen Kabir