Pratt arrived as a 2019 third-round pick who blossomed into a consistent starter over six seasons, but as he entered a contract year that would require him to adjust to a new coordinator, he felt it would be best if the Bengals traded him elsewhere. Instead, he’s hitting the open market before mandatory minicamp begins.
Cincinnati’s decision to release Pratt will save them $5.85 million in cap space for 2025, providing a slight financial incentive in what has been an expensive offseason for the Bengals. Meanwhile, the 29-year-old will enter free agency as a top-10 tackler in the NFL last season and should be expected to garner interest.
Don’t be surprised if his old DC convinces the Colts to pick up the phone.