The Cleveland Browns managed to secure a narrow 13-6 victory against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, a game marked by struggling offenses but a strong defensive performance from the home team. Despite this win, a segment of Browns fans expressed dissatisfaction, particularly due to the implications for the upcoming NFL draft. By triumphing over their rivals, Cleveland diminishes its chances of securing a top draft pick, likely making it more challenging to choose a quarterback without trading up.
This dynamic has led to a discussion among fans about the merits of losing for a better draft position, a sentiment that Browns offensive lineman Joel Bitonio addressed following the game. Bitonio acknowledged the fans” focus on the future but emphasized the responsibilities players hold during the season. “I do not blame the fans for thinking about the future,” he stated, yet he underscored that each game serves as a critical part of a player”s career. “Every time you go on the field, it”s a resume. This is a real sport. This is the NFL. You have to put your best foot forward when you go out there. You have to compete.”
Bitonio highlighted the presence of numerous young players on the team who aspire to build a winning culture. He articulated that losing games intentionally is not a thought that crosses a professional player”s mind. “These guys are trying to build a culture for the future,” Bitonio explained. “To go out there and be like, “we”re going to lose our last couple of games for a better draft pick,” would never cross a player”s mind.” He pointed out that in professional football, opportunities are limited, and players must maximize their performance in every game.
Bitonio”s comments reflect the challenging position athletes find themselves in when their own supporters advocate for losses in hopes of improved draft positioning. Having been a part of some of the franchise”s most difficult seasons, he has dedicated himself to the city of Cleveland. To suggest that he should sacrifice effort for a future benefit feels disrespectful to him and his teammates, who put everything on the line each week.
