The Cincinnati Bengals overhauled the linebacker position during the offseason and Al Golden’s first year as the defensive coordinator. The front office signed Oren Burks to a two-year contract in free agency. The Bengals then drafted Demetrius Knight Jr. in the second round and Barrett Carter in the fourth round, joining the likes of Logan Wilson.
Adding these three linebackers put a long-time starter on the chopping block.
The Cincinnati Bengals tried to shop a team captain
In February, team captain Germaine Pratt requested a trade following the firing of Lou Anarumo. He had his best statistical season, posting career highs in tackles, with 143 tackles, five TFLs, two interceptions, six pass deflections, and two forced fumbles in 17 starts. Pratt enters the final year of his three-year, $20.25 million deal, and he is scheduled to earn a $5.25 million base salary, $0 guaranteed, and an $8.18 million cap hit in 2025.
It’s been nearly three months since the starting linebacker has requested a trade.
Cincinnati Bengals’ team captain let go after 6 seasons
According to Tom Pelissero of NFL Network, after failing to find a trade suitor, the Bengals will release Germaine Pratt on Monday. As a result, the front office will free up $5.85 million and incur $2.33 million in dead cap. With his release, Pratt is now the top linebacker available in free agency.
The #Bengals are releasing veteran LB Germaine Pratt today, per sources.
Pratt ranked in the top 10 in the NFL last season in tackles and was a team captain. Now, he hits the open market. pic.twitter.com/6OabVd3Dv8
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 9, 2025
Here’s a look at their LB depth
Baltimore Ravens At Cincinnati Bengals Afc Wild Card Jan 15 403
- Logan Wilson
- Demetrius Knight Jr.
- Oren Burks
- Barrett Carter
- Maema Njongmeta
- Shaka Heyward
- Joe Giles-Harris
- Craig Young
Since the defense operates as a 4-3, they will likely keep five to seven linebackers on the 53-man roster.
