Without question, Wilson, the leader of the linebacker room, has emerged as a cornerstone of the Bengals' defense over the last five seasons. Although he missed the last five games last season, he was on pace to smash his previous career-high in tackles (135) with 104 through 11 games.

Pratt was set to enter the final season of his three-year contract in 2025. He inked the deal, worth more than $20 million, in 2023. In releasing Pratt, the Bengals will incur $2.3 million in dead money against the salary cap. He was set to earn a $5.25 million salary for the 2025 season.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow had nothing but good things to say during mandatory minicamp after the team released linebacker Germaine Pratt . The Bengals released Pratt in a cost-cutting measure after the veteran requested his release back in February, but only after revamping the position via free agency and the draft.