You could argue that this is not the only Bengal this team should trade for. However, this is the most realistic that the team would be able to acquire. Bengals edge rusher, Trey Hendrickson, has also asked to be traded. The Bengals have not honored that request, either. Lastly, there appears to be a stalemate between the Bengals and wide receiver Tee Higgins.
More than just the news of Germaine Pratt could seep into the Colts realm of news, but for right now, let’s focus on why this could happen and if it even could happen on the Colts end. The answer to whether it could happen is obviously yes. However, as Chris Ballard always reiterates, it takes both teams on board for these deals to happen. Pratt’s caliber rarely comes available, and Cincinnati will not just give him away.
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Why It Works
This reasoning is plain as day; he is loyal to former Bengals DC and newly hired Colts DC Lou Anarumo. Outside of being loyal to Anarumo, he fits a need for the franchise at the linebacker position. He does play the same position as Zaire Franklin, but he could get moved to the weak side (or Will) linebacker position. With both EJ Speed and Grant Stuard headed for free agency, the need for depth at the position is evident.
Not only would Pratt bring another veteran presence to the locker room, but he can bring his knowledge of the new scheme and maybe, most importantly, some urgency. He rarely takes plays off, stays healthy, and has played in 7 playoff games during his Cincinnati tenure. This current locker room needs someone who has been there and can help change that culture.
What Would It Cost?
Let’s dive deeper into what it could take to ultimately land Germaine Pratt in Indianapolis. He is entering the final year of his current deal, and he is set to make about $5.6 million with a cap hit of $7.9 million. This puts the Colts in a unique situation in their attempt to make this trade. They could pitch it as a one-year deal, and if this current regime gets canned, he can follow Anarumo wherever he goes next. If the regime appears to right the ship, they can sign him to an extension and allow him to partner with Zaire Franklin.
The specifics of the deal would be interesting to see. If the Colts truly want to clean house on the Gus Bradley era, would they consider trying to trade Zaire Franklin for Germaine Pratt? I do not see that happening, but I could see the Colts trying to swing a different player for him. Trey Hendrickson asked for a trade and has not rescinded that request yet. The Bengals may look to bring in another veteran pass rusher under the new system with Al Golden.
Could the two teams try to swing a Kwity Paye for Germaine Pratt deal? Both players are in the final years of their respective contracts, and they may need some other pieces to make it work. Paye has been underwhelming to most of the fanbase, and a fresh start might be just what he needs. If they don’t go with roster players, then some late Day 2 draft capital should convince Cincinnati to ultimately get a deal done.
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