Cornerback Jaire Alexander wasn’t the lone notable NFL player to be released from his contract on Monday. The Cincinnati Bengals cut ties with veteran linebacker Germaine Pratt. Could the Seattle Seahawks have interest in adding an off-ball defender of Pratt’s caliber?
The #Bengals are releasing veteran LB Germaine Pratt today, per sources.
Pratt ranked in the top 10 in the NFL last season in tackles and was a team captain. Now, he hits the open market. pic.twitter.com/6OabVd3Dv8
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 9, 2025
Pratt requested a trade away from the Bengals in February, but a deal never materialized. The former NC State standout finished 10th in tackles last season with 143 takedowns. Those workhorse numbers could always appeal to a defensive-minded head coach like Mike Macdonald.
The Seahawks currently have Ernest Jones IV and Tyrice Knight at off-ball linebacker. Jones was re-signed earlier this offseason after recording 94 tackles in 10 games last year. Knight, a fourth-round rookie, exploded onto the scene late, totaling 88 tackles.
Though Pratt’s tackle numbers were great, the analytics indicate he performed rather poorly last season. Pro Football Focus credited him with a lackluster 53.4 grade in coverage. Coverage used to be Pratt’s strong suit, so it’s a potential warning sign that he’s declining with age.
The Seahawks have an ascending linebacker in Knight on an affordable rookie contract. Signing Pratt would potentially stunt his growth, and it’s doubtful he’d agree to come to Seattle in a reserve backup role. Ultimately, the Seahawks shouldn’t show any interest in signing Pratt.
This article originally appeared on Seahawks Wire: Seahawks free agency: Should LB Germaine Pratt be a target?