Veteran Linebacker Hits the Open Market
The change of scenery Germaine Pratt wanted is now a reality. NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on Monday that the Cincinnati Bengals are releasing the linebacker, according to sources.
A Difficult Season and Trade Request
Earlier this offseason, Pratt asked to be traded after a challenging year for the entire Bengals defense that ended with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo’s dismissal. Despite leading the team with 143 tackles, Pro Football Focus credited Pratt with 20 missed tackles.
Drafted in the third round in 2019, he evolved into a reliable starter over six seasons, yet—facing a contract year under a new coordinator—he believed a fresh start elsewhere would be best. Instead of arranging a trade, Cincinnati decided to cut him before mandatory minicamp.
Cap Implications and Free-Agency Outlook
Releasing Pratt frees up $5.85 million in 2025 cap space for the Bengals, a modest but helpful saving in an already pricey offseason. At 29 and coming off a top-10 tackling season in the NFL, Pratt is expected to draw considerable interest as a free agent. “Don’t be surprised if his old DC convinces the Colts to pick up the phone.”
