Cincinnati Bengals Defensive Captain Requests Trade Amid Team Changes

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Zachary Rainey | Last updated Feb 13, 2025 12:50 PM ET

It was no secret that changes were going to be made to this Cincinnati Bengals roster and coaching staff. After a 9-8 season, just a few seasons removed from going to the Super Bowl, felt like nothing but underachievement.

After players and fans alike get a taste of what it's like to play in a Super Bowl, it can be difficult to manage expectations. The Bengals woke up in the last month of the season, winning five consecutive games in hopes of sneaking into the final Wild Card spot, but fell just short.

One of the first changes that was made was at defensive coordinator, as the Bengals fired Lou Anarumo and replaced him with former Notre Dame defensive coordinator Al Golden.

The Bengals knew they would have to improve, as well as fill holes left by free agents on a defense that ranked No. 25 in the league in scoring defense, but were likely shocked with the news that NFL.com's Ian Rappaport broke Wednesday.

#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

Captain and leading tackler Germaine Pratt requested a trade from the organization.

According to Rappaport, Pratt was close with former defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who took the same job with the Indianapolis Colts shortly after being fired.

Whether or nor Pratt requests a trade specifically to the Colts for a reunion remains to be seen, but at 28-years-old, there will certainly be a market for him.

On top of having to replace B.J. Hill in the middle of the defensive line, Cincinnati will now have to find a replacement for Pratt, who finished with 143 total tackles and two interceptions last season.

Fortunately for the Bengals, the linebacker position is typically one that doesn't require spending a top pick to acquire, so other needs could be addressed at No. 17 before looking to replace Pratt, perhaps on Day 2 of the 2025 NFL Draft.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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