The Cincinnati Bengals are eager to rebound following a highly disappointing 2024 season. Initially, they had Super Bowl aspirations, but a slow start hindered their path to the playoffs, despite a five-game winning streak to finish the year. Compounding their challenges was the looming potential loss of superstar wide receivers Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, as neither was secured with a contract extension before the season commenced. Now, according to a notable NFL insider, the Bengals face the possibility of losing another star player.
“Bengals defensive captain and leading tackler Germaine Pratt has requested a trade, sources tell me and (Tom Pelissero). Cincinnati has been focusing on maintaining their offensive core, and Pratt was closely connected with DC Lou Anarumo, who was fired after last season,” reported NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport on Wednesday.
Fans expressed their reactions on social media. “Just what they need, more holes to fill. I don’t think Pratt was the issue with the defense,” one fan commented on Twitter. Another remarked, “He’s someone they should trade. They can save money.” A different fan added, “This is not one of the defensive players I want to see gone. Him and Wilson have solidified the linebacker core for years.” One frustrated fan concluded, “The Bengals said they don’t care about defense winning championships! They learned nothing from missing the playoffs this year! Just let Ted Higgins go!” It will be intriguing to see which players the Bengals ultimately lose this offseason.
