The Cincinnati Bengals are releasing veteran linebacker Germaine Pratt, according to NFL Network reporter Tom Pelissero.
Pratt, 29, was drafted by the Bengals in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft with the 72nd pick. The North Carolina product recorded 143 total tackles and two interceptions last season.
Cincinnati’s decision to release one of their most reliable defenders will save them $5.6 million, per Pelissero.
However, Bengals and NFL fans weren't thrilled with the decision and shared their thoughts on where he could play next.
“Gonna miss watching him play,” one wrote on X.
“Buffalo should consider going after him,” another commented.
“He will be a @Viking by tomorrow,” another shared.
“Bengals D taking a hit,” one fan wrote.
“He’s gonna be a Ram,” another wrote.
“Germaine Pratt’s release sparks NFL free agency frenzy now,” another shared.
Pratt would be a quality addition to any roster willing to sign him since he was named the Bengals 2019 Rookie of the Year by The Enquirer and named First-Team All-ACC in 2018 as a member of the NC State Wolfpack’s defense.
The possibility of Pratt signing with the Buffalo Bills is intriguing because his playoff experience can help develop their relatively young linebacker room. Furthermore, at six-foot-three and 249 pounds, he could create a solid tandem alongside Matt Milano.
Former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt (#57) tackles Kansas City Chiefs Tight End Travis Kelce (#87)
Former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt (#57) tackles Kansas City Chiefs Tight End Travis Kelce (#87)
Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
The Vikings are another option for Pratt because his leadership could help develop their linebacker core, which is led by Jonathan Greenard, Austin Keys and Matt Harmon. Meanwhile, the Los Angeles Rams are an intriguing third option because Pratt could be a solid fit next to Byron Young and Jared Verse.