NFL
Bengals LB Germaine Pratt Requests Trade: 3 Best Landing Spots

Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt has requested a trade. Where should the veteran end up? Here are three of the best landing spots for Germaine Pratt.
Germaine Pratt Requests Trade
#Bengals defensive captain and leading tackler Germaine Pratt has requested a trade, sources tell me and @TomPelissero.
Cincinnati has been devoting resources to keeping their offensive core together and Pratt was close to DC Lou Anarumo, who was fired after last season. pic.twitter.com/NuP0TmxIZv
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 12, 2025
Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero, Pratt, 28, has requested a trade from the Bengals.
While the Bengals’ defense struggled in 2024, Pratt was one of the bright spots.
As the defensive captain, Pratt led the team in tackles with 143. Pratt also had two interceptions and two forced fumbles.
Pratt, Zack Baun, and Zaire Franklin were the only players with 140+ tackles and 6+ turnover plays.
Despite Pratt’s strong numbers, the Bengals’ defense ranked near the bottom in nearly every statistical category and was one of the reasons why the team missed the postseason.
Pratt has a cap hit of over $8.1 million. If Pratt is traded or released, the Bengals would be on the hook for a $2.3 million dead-money hit. However, the Bengals would also clear up $5.8 million in cap space.
The Bengals have tough financial decisions to make this offseason. Ja’Marr Chase is due for an extension, and Tee Higgins will be a free agent.
3 Best Landing Spots For Germaine Pratt
Keep an eye out for the obvious: Germaine Pratt following Lou Anarumo to Indianapolis.
Pratt joined #Colts LB Zaire Franklin this past season as two of three players across the league to total 140+ tackles and 6+ turnovers forced. Team Captain under Anarumo. https://t.co/gV4KBulWLZ
— Noah Compton (@nerlens_) February 12, 2025
The obvious landing spot is the Indianapolis Colts.
Former Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo is now the Colts’ DC. Pratt reuniting with Anarumo to help a defense that gave up the fourth-most yards in the NFL makes a ton of sense.
The Washington Commanders have the offense covered thanks to Jayden Daniels at quarterback. Washington’s defense is the problem.
Expect the Commanders to invest in their defense during free agency and in the draft. Pratt could replace Bobby Wagner if the latter signs with another team.
Keep an eye on the Los Angeles Rams. While the Rams have a young front four led by Jared Verse, they need to solidify their back seven. Pratt could be the veteran to complete a stout Rams’ defense.