NFL News: Bengals' Germaine Pratt Reportedly Requests Trade Ahead of Contract Year

The Cincinnati Bengals reportedly could be on the verge of losing one of their top defensive players this offseason.

NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported on Wednesday that Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt, who is entering the final year of his contract, requested to be traded.

Pratt signed a three-year extension with Cincinnati in 2023 and is set to make $5.6 million in 2025 after leading the team with 143 total tackles this past season. He also added six passes defended, two interceptions, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

Rapoport noted that Pratt was close to former Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who was fired after the 2024 season. Also, Cincinnati has been "devoting resources to keeping" its offensive core intact, which would likely make it difficult to keep Pratt and other star defensive players in the fold.

Pratt has enough upside to attract potential suitors on the trade market. Rapoport pointed out that he was a locker room leader, wore the green dot as the on-field defensive play-caller, and has two years of playoff experience.

Sports Illustrated Bengals reporter Jay Morrison explained that Cincinnati faced a similar situation last offseason when star running back Joe Mixon was entering the final year of his contract. It appeared that Mixon was likely to be cut by the team before the Houston Texans secured a trade for him.

The Bengals would be wise to try to recoup assets for Pratt and avoid losing him for nothing, as the 28-year-old is a rising star who could be a difference-maker in the right situation.