Bengals releasing veteran LB Germaine Pratt after six seasons

Linebacker Germaine Pratt has been released by the Cincinnati Bengals, as reported by Tom Pelissero. Pratt had requested a trade after a challenging season for the team's defense, which included the firing of defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. Despite leading the team with 143 tackles, he also had 20 missed tackles. As a third-round pick, Pratt became a reliable starter over six seasons, but faced potential adjustments with a new coordinator in a contract year. The Bengals' decision to release him frees up $5.85 million in cap space, and Pratt, entering free agency at 29, is expected to attract interest from teams, potentially including the Colts.