Pratt and Bengals Nearing a Split

Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt has officially requested a trade, according to NFL Network insiders Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero.

At 28, Pratt has become a key contributor to the Bengals’ defense. Last season, he served as a defensive captain and led the team with 143 tackles. He also made an impact in coverage and turnover creation, recording two interceptions and two forced fumbles during the 2024 campaign.

Pratt's journey with the Bengals began in 2019 when he emerged as a starter midway through his rookie season and quickly became an integral part of the team’s defense. However, the 2024 season proved challenging for both Pratt and the Bengals' defense, which struggled in key areas, leading to the team parting ways with longtime defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. Despite leading the team in tackles, Pratt struggled with missed opportunities, recording 20 missed tackles, according to Pro Football Focus (PFF).

This offseason, the Bengals face critical decisions, especially concerning their wide receiver corps. Star receiver Tee Higgins is set to enter free agency, while Ja'Marr Chase is on the verge of securing a long-term contract extension. Currently, the Bengals are projected to have around $46 million in salary cap space for 2025. However, re-signing both Higgins and Chase could significantly cut into that flexibility, making roster decisions even more challenging.

With Pratt carrying an $8.1 million cap hit for the upcoming season, the Bengals must carefully consider their options. If the Bengals trade or release him, they would take a $2.3 million dead cap hit but free up $5.8 million in additional cap space.

Additionally, Joe Burrow has reportedly pushed the front office to prioritize retaining Trey Hendrickson, Ja'Marr Chase, and Tee Higgins, leaving Pratt as the odd man out.

Should Pratt hit free agency, he’s likely to draw interest from multiple teams looking for a veteran linebacker.