Analyst makes case for Lions to sign Bengals defender (but not the one you think)

Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt was released from the team this week, clearing up cap space that the team is possibly looking to use on their star pass rusher, Trey Hendrickson. Hendrickson still hasn't shown up to their training camp or OTAs as he looks for a new deal to get done between himself and the team he's called home since 2021.

Pratt is a casualty of that progress for Cincinnati. The seven year veteran isn't one to rack up sacks, but he's a consistent defender who played two full seasons in a row for the Bengals. That's the kind of consistency that a team like the Detroit Lions could use, especially with their linebacker room just a bit shaky to start the 2025 offseason.

Sports Illustrated's Christian Booher wrote up a pros and cons list for the Lions considering snagging Pratt in free agency, and the arguments for getting him are pretty convincing.

SI analyst offers compelling argument for Lions to sign Pratt

"The last two seasons have both been plenty productive ones for Pratt, as he's surpassed 100 combined tackles in each campaign. In fact, in 2024 Pratt logged 143 combined tackles and 80 solos to go along with two interceptions and two forced fumbles," wrote Booher.

He added, "Currently, the Lions are dealing with a situation of their own at the linebacker position. Alex Anzalone did not participate in the offseason workouts and is reportedly seeking an extension as he enters the final year of a three-year contract."

In addition to the Anzalone elephant in the room, the team is also going to be without Malcolm Rodriguez until at least November of this year. Jack Campbell is their best, and healthiest, option at linebacker right now, but even he didn't go the offseason unscathed - he underwent hip surgery. They brought back Derrick Barnes to add depth the room, though.

READ MORE: Lions suddenly facing massive decision after minicamp no-show

The cons Booher lists includes that his price tag might just be too much for a Detroit team that's looking to likely negotiate a new deal with Anzalone instead of letting him walk, and as they're probably looking to begin work on an extension for Aidan Hutchinson down the road, as well. Tying themselves up in a contract for Pratt might throw a wrench in that.

Also, given the recent comments from pass rusher Za'Darius Smith, it sounds like the Lions might be spending their cap space elsewhere in free agency soon.