NFL

Joe Burrow loses historic teammate in the Bengals ahead of the 2025 NFL season

The Cincinnati Bengals released a key defensive player from Joe Burrow’s team ahead of the upcoming NFL season.

Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals warms up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on September 18, 2022 in Arlington, Texas.
© Wesley Hitt/Getty ImagesJoe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals warms up before the game against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium on September 18, 2022 in Arlington, Texas.

The upcoming NFL season promises several title contenders, and the Cincinnati Bengals are undoubtedly among them. Unfortunately for Joe Burrow and the rest of the team, a key defensive teammate will no longer be under Zac Taylor’s leadership moving forward.

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The latest news reports a significant decision made by the Bengals involving veteran Germaine Pratt. The linebacker was released by the franchise and is now free to consider offers for the upcoming season.

This was reported by NFL insider Tom Pelissero, who revealed the significant move made by Cincinnati involving one of the team’s captains via his official X account (formerly Twitter).

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“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,” the insider stated via @TomPelissero.

Germaine Pratt

Germaine Pratt #57 of the Cincinnati Bengals in action during the game against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on October 13, 2024 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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The veteran player had requested a trade early in the offseason, and one potential destination for him is the Indianapolis Colts.

Bengals QB Joe Burrow receives important message from 2-Time Super Bowl champion Peyton Manning

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A pivotal season for the Bengals

Joe Burrow enters the 2025 NFL season determined to lead the Cincinnati Bengals back to the Super Bowl. After coming close in recent years, Burrow’s leadership and poise remain key as the team looks to finally capture the elusive championship.

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Head coach Zac Taylor is focused on finding the perfect balance between offense and defense. With a dynamic passing game led by their QB, the Bengals aim to shore up their defense and improve consistency on both sides of the ball.

Cincinnati retained star wide receivers Tee Higgins and Ja’Marr Chase, ensuring a potent aerial attack. Facing tough competition in the AFC North from the Ravens, Browns, and Steelers, the Bengals are ready to battle for a playoff run and make a deep postseason push.

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Rough opening stretch for the Bengals

  • @ Cleveland Browns, September 7th
  • vs Jacksonville Jaguars, September 14th
  • @ Minnesota Vikings, September 21st
  • @ Denver Broncos, September 29th
  • vs Detroit Lions, October 5th

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