The Cleveland Browns will have veteran guard Joel Bitonio in the lineup when they face the Green Bay Packers, despite the All-Pro battling through a lingering injury. Bitonio, known for his toughness and consistency, has been limited in practice but is expected to suit up, providing a crucial boost to the Browns’ offensive line against a physical Packers front.
“You want to be on the football team if you have 22 of them, and you’re going to be tough to beat. So, I mean, believe it, believe me, he gets all the respect in the world from the guys in this locker room and from everybody in this building. He’s a warrior, and you know that’s what this game’s all about, and you know, he kind of just. I think he takes that stuff to heart, and he wants to be there for his guys, and you’ve got to respect the hell out of that,“ Joe Flacco said during a pre-game press meet.
His presence will be especially important with the offense still finding its rhythm early in the season.
However, the Browns will be without wide receiver Jerry Jeudy and backup quarterback Joe Flacco. Jeudy, who was acquired in a high-profile offseason trade, will be held out after he prompted some offensive behavior. A significant fine was imposed on the Browns’ star as a result of Jeudy’s gesture, which did not sit well with the NFL league office or the Ravens fans.
“We haven’t, and maybe at some point you have to, but I would hope not. I. You know, it’s funny because I get these questions up here, but I’m not really. I don’t really think about those things. You know, listen. I want to go out there. I do want to go out there and throw for 300 every day and do all those things. I want him to have 100 and 50 every week. But that’s just not how this league works. All the time, you’ve got to stay patient, and when your number’s called. I think if you are in that patient mindset, then you’re going to be the most ready to strike. Opportunity is ready for you, and I think that’s all we can do,” Joe Flacco said.
Cleveland is clearly focused on balancing competitiveness with long-term health. With Bitonio pushing through, but Jeudy sidelined, the Browns hope to hold their ground while keeping key players ready for the long season ahead.