The Cincinnati Bengals had to know linebacker Germaine Pratt would be sought-after on the open market. With the team releasing him on June 10th, it took Pratt just one day to find a new home. According to Adam Schefter, Pratt agreed to a one-year deal with the Las Vegas Raiders. Now that OTAs have begun, it makes sense for Pratt to want to find his new team as soon as possible, so he does not fall behind. The Raiders needed depth at linebacker, and Pratt will provide that with the upside of being a quality starter.
Former Bengals LB Germaine Pratt is signing a one-year deal with the Las Vegas Raiders, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 11, 2025
Pratt spent the last six seasons as a member of the Bengals, where he started 88 of 96 games and recorded four seasons with 90 or more combined tackles. Pratt has just turned 29 years old and should have a few more years of quality play ahead of him. On the current depth chart, Pratt is slotted in as the starting weakside linebacker alongside Elandon Roberts. After those two, the Raiders have Tommy Eichenberg and veteran Devin White. It is easy to see why a player like Pratt piqued their interest.
Choosing the Raiders made a ton of sense for Pratt, as he now gets to team up with head coach Pete Carroll and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham. Teaming up with a veteran coaching staff will enable Pratt to understand his role in the new defensive scheme quickly. As for the Bengals, they felt comfortable parting ways with Pratt because of the players they have waiting in the wings.
Rookies Demetrius Knight Jr. and Barrett Carter will likely see plenty of snaps this season alongside veteran Logan Wilson. Pratt was a captain of the defense in 2024 and leaves a big void in the locker room. It will be interesting to see who steps up in his place and helps the Bengals' defense recover after an awful 2024 campaign.