Steelers Now
Cincinnati Bengals star linebacker Germaine Pratt has requested to be traded from the team this offseason.
Cincinnati Bengals star linebacker Germaine Pratt has requested to be traded following what was a very disappointing 2024 season, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport.
Pratt, 28, is coming off a very productive season, during which he had a career-high and team-leading 143 tackles along with two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, two interceptions and six passes defensed.
However, the same could not be said for the rest of the Bengals defense, which allowed the seventh most points per game (25.5) and eighth most total yards per game (348.3).
It remains to be seen whether the Bengals would entertain trading Pratt, who has served as their defensive captain and key piece on the defense since being drafted by the team in 2019. But Cincinnati could certainly use the extra cash this offseason.
The Bengals are entering an offseason with a lot of questions. Star wide receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are both looking to cash in on big paydays. If Cincinnati hopes to retain both, parting ways with Pratt could help its efforts to do so.
Pratt signed a three-year, $20.25 million contract extension with the Bengals in 2023, which leaves one year left on his current deal.
The veteran linebacker should have a trade market if the Bengals want to grant him his wish. He was one of only three players with at least 140 tackles and six turnover plays this past season and has plenty of playoff experience for teams ready to win now.
Rapoport adds that Pratt was close with former Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who has since joined the Indianapolis Colts as their defensive coordinator. Maybe that’s a team to keep an eye on for Pratt’s trade market.
Pratt’s trade request is the second within the AFC North this offseason. Cleveland Browns defensive end Myles Garrett also requested a trade at the beginning of the month.
It’s still very early into the offseason, but the Steelers are surely hoping none of their players make it three following their sixth straight playoff loss.
