Raiders Part Ways with Linebacker Germaine Pratt in Surprising Move
Germaine Pratt Released by Raiders: Team Looks to Future Options
Veteran Linebacker Germaine Pratt Released by Las Vegas Raiders
Germaine Pratt’s stint with the Las Vegas Raiders has come to a close. Head coach Pete Carroll announced Pratt’s release on Monday, explaining the team’s decision to pursue a different direction, according to ESPN’s Ryan McFadden. This move signals that Pratt was no longer part of the Raiders’ plans for this season. Despite being healthy, Pratt did not accompany the team for their Week 5 game, as reported by Ian Rapoport of NFL Network.
From Cincinnati Bengals to Las Vegas Raiders
Pratt, known for his time with the Cincinnati Bengals, was considered a likely candidate to be cut this offseason. Following his release in June, his six-year tenure with the Bengals came to an end. Pratt quickly secured a new opportunity with the Raiders, signing a one-year contract with $3.75 million in guarantees. However, the team is now absorbing this amount as a dead cap charge while freeing up just over $1 million in cap space, adding to their existing $7.6 million funds.
Raiders’ Strategy Post-Pratt Release
The Raiders are now evaluating their options to fill the linebacker position left vacant by Pratt’s departure. They might explore the free-agent market or potential trade acquisitions. Internally, the team may rely on existing players to cover Pratt’s responsibilities. During his time with the Raiders, Pratt was a starter for the first four games, participating in 88% of the defensive snaps.
Germaine Pratt’s Career Highlights and Future Prospects
- Pratt amassed 25 tackles and two pass deflections in September.
- He has appeared in 100 NFL games and started in 92 of them.
- Pratt offers substantial experience to any team considering adding him to their roster.
As Pratt returns to free agency, his substantial experience makes him an attractive option for teams in need of a seasoned linebacker, although he might need to adapt to a backup role depending on future negotiations. Emegypt will continue following developments in Pratt’s career as NFL teams evaluate his potential contributions for the rest of the season and beyond.
