Packers Could Make Big Move for Joel Bitonio to Protect Jordan Love
The Green Bay Packers are reportedly exploring a potential trade for Cleveland Browns guard Joel Bitonio, a five-time All-Pro, to help reinforce their offensive line. Bitonio, 32, is known for his elite pass protection and dominant run-blocking abilities. He has been a staple on the Browns’ offensive front for years, and his veteran leadership could be just what the Packers need to protect quarterback Jordan Love and improve their rushing attack.
“I’ve always believed in doing the dirty work up front,” Bitonio said when reflecting on his career. “Offensive line play isn’t glamorous, but it’s the foundation for everything. If Green Bay comes calling, I’m always ready to give my best.”
The Packers, facing a string of injuries along their offensive line, are looking to shore up their front five before the playoffs. Head coach Matt LaFleur has emphasized the importance of solid protection for Love, who has been playing under pressure in his first year as the starting quarterback.
“We’ve got a young quarterback, and we need to protect him better,” LaFleur said. “Joel brings a wealth of experience and stability. His leadership and ability to dominate up front could be the missing piece we need to get to the next level.”
While the Browns have yet to entertain trade discussions regarding Bitonio, the Packers' interest signals their commitment to bolstering their offensive line as the trade deadline approaches. As the Packers prepare for the second half of the season, all eyes will be on whether they can land one of the league’s top interior linemen.
“Every team wants a player like Joel,” said Packers offensive lineman Elgton Jenkins. “He’s the kind of guy who can change an offensive line overnight. Having him would be a huge boost to any team.”
As the trade deadline approaches, the Packers may look to make a move that would solidify their offensive front for the stretch run.
Derek Carr Puts Ashton Jeanty on Notice Over Comments on Raiders’ Losing Culture
Running back Ashton Jeanty is quickly learning that turning around the Las Vegas Raiders is going to be a difficult job. The team is 2-5 and playing some really bad football.
After the Raiders’ shutout loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Week 7, Jeanty got honest about the team’s culture.
“I’ve lost before in my life, but I definitely don’t like losing,”
The Raiders have had two winning seasons since 2002, so Jeanty is correct in his assessment. However, former quarterback Derek Carr wants Jeanty to do something about it instead of talking about it.
“Yes, it has been hard there for a long time. Trust me, nobody knows more than me, big dog,” Carr said on the “Home Grown” podcast. “But the only people that can fix it are the ones in the building. You’ve got to set the culture, you’ve got to set the standard. We went to the playoffs two times, and it hadn’t happened in 20 years. … But instead of dwelling on it, I’m excited to see the young bat go run more violently than he’s ever ran. Pick up blitzes more violently with his hands than he ever has to push the team forward … because I believe in the Raiders, man.”
Can Raiders Finally Solve Their Issues?
There have been dozens of coaches, players and front office members who have tried to turn the Raiders around, and all of them have failed. Owner Mark Davis decided to sell a portion of the franchise to
He had a key role in picking Pete Carroll as head coach and John Spytek as general manager. Carroll is a Super Bowl-winning head coach, and Spytek was very qualified to become a general manager, but the early returns haven’t been good.
It remains to be seen if they will be the ones to turn the Raiders around, but it sounds like Davis isn’t planning any big changes yet.
More Raiders Get Honest About Team’s Struggles
The Raiders weren’t expected to be this bad this season. There is talent on the roster, but they clearly need more. Players have been getting honest about the struggles.
“Everybody knows we are not where we want to be,” wide receiver
Players are also looking inward to see if there’s a solution.
“[We’re] hungry, looking for answers,” safety Jeremy Chinn said. “I don’t think there’s anybody worried negatively. Guys are looking at ourselves in the mirror and trying to figure out what we can do differently.”
The Raiders have time to turn things around this season, but it has to happen soon.
