The Cincinnati Bengals have made a shocking decision about one of the better defensive players on the roster. The team has decided to release star linebacker Germaine Pratt.
NFL insider Tom Pelissero reported the news on social media.
The move to release Pratt was hinted at earlier in the offseason, but it took the Bengals far too long to make the decision. But this was purely about financial savings for Cincinnati, as they will save $5.6 million in cash and cap space for 2025.
Pratt was great for the Bengals last season, posting 143 tackles and two interceptions over 17 games played. The veteran linebacker was one of the lone bright spots for the Bengals in what was a horrible defensive showing throughout the year.
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Cincinnati will now need to figure out a plan to replace his production on the defensive side of the ball. Even before the release of Pratt, the Bengals' defense was still a heavy question mark as the season got closer.
The Bengals may be looking at using rookie Demetrius Knight Jr. to replace Pratt in the lineup. But this is extremely risky, entering a season where the team has its sights set on a Super Bowl run.
Pratt was also one of the more loved players on the roster. The linebacker gave fans a memory that they will never forget in the 2021 AFC Wild-Card playoff game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
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The linebacker picked off the Raiders quarterback, Derek Carr, for a game-sealing interception. This helped the Bengals snap a 31-year playoff win drought.
Pratt was originally selected Bengals in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. The former North Carolina State product quickly turned himself into a production player for Cincinnati and helped them turn the defense around.
Due to his overall production, Pratt shouldn't be a free agent for long. Many have already linked him to the Indianapolis Colts due to the connection he built with former Bengals defensive coordinator Anarumo.
But no matter where he ends up, he will always be a special player for the Bengals organization.
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