The Detroit Lions have done a solid job this offseason patching up their roster, but there’s still one major question left to answer: Who’s locking down the left guard spot? That missing piece could soon be filled by a familiar name—Joel Bitonio.
Bitonio, a 7-time Pro Bowl offensive lineman and long-time anchor for the Cleveland Browns, is now being floated as a potential trade target for Detroit. According to For The Win, a deal could come together that would send Bitonio to the Lions in exchange for a pair of late Day 3 draft picks.
At 33 years old, Bitonio is still playing at a high level. He started all 17 games for Cleveland last season, logging over 1,100 snaps while giving up just three sacks. Plugging him in next to Taylor Decker and across from Penei Sewell would give the Lions one of the nastiest offensive lines in the NFC—and maybe the NFL.
The move would also bring a veteran presence to a young interior line group that includes rookie Tate Ratledge and returning veterans Graham Glasgow and Christian Mahogany. Plus, Bitonio has experience in just about every blocking scheme imaginable, which should make for a smooth transition under new offensive coordinator John Morton.
The proposed trade? Detroit would send a 2026 sixth-round pick and a 2027 seventh-rounder to Cleveland for Bitonio. With the Browns reportedly retooling and already adding guard Teven Jenkins, the deal could make sense for both sides.
Bottom line: If the Browns are really willing to listen, the Lions shouldn’t hesitate. Bitonio is a proven force up front and could be the kind of “win-now” piece that helps push Detroit over the top in their quest for a Super Bowl.
Could Bitonio Be the Final Piece in Detroit’s Super Bowl Push?
