The Philadelphia Eagles are coming down from a high after winning the Super Bowl. But as the confetti is cleaned up on the streets, the front office is hard at work trying to prepare for the offseason.
The Eagles have several free agents who will hit the market this spring and each will create a ripple effect on the roster. Zack Baun is one of those free agents, and although he has expressed interest in returning to Philadelphia, the search could be on for his replacement if he decides to sign elsewhere.
Thankfully for the Eagles, a solid option has emerged on the trade market and could bring another tackling machine to Philadelphia in 2025.
#Bengals defensive captain and leading tackler Germaine Pratt has requested a trade, sources tell me and @TomPelissero.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) February 12, 2025
Cincinnati has been devoting resources to keeping their offensive core together and Pratt was close to DC Lou Anarumo, who was fired after last season. pic.twitter.com/NuP0TmxIZv
Eagles Could Target Bengals Linebacker Germaine Pratt if Zack Baun Leaves in Free Agency
According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt requested a trade earlier this week. Rapoport stated that his relationship with defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who was fired and took a new job with the Indianapolis Colts, was part of the reason for the request. The Bengals are also reportedly devoting more of their resources to the offensive side of the ball as top receivers Ja’Marr Chase and Tee Higgins pursue new contracts.
Pratt led the Bengals with 143 tackles last season, including five tackles for loss, two forced fumbles, two interceptions, and six pass deflections. He also has recorded 90 or more tackles in each of the past four seasons and has reached the 100 tackle mark in back-to-back years.
While the Eagles’ front seven was a strength last year, it could be a glaring need when free agency begins. Baun became a Pro Bowl player after he signed with the Eagles from New Orleans last season, racking up 151 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 3.5 sacks, but he is a free agent after his one-year deal expired.
Spotrac estimates Baun could command $9.7 million annually as a free agent. If the Eagles balk, they could acquire Pratt, who is set to make $8.1 million in the final year of his contract but could be looking for an extension.
Either way, it creates an interesting layer in the Eagles' decision to either keep Baun or let him walk in free agency. If he heads somewhere else, Pratt could be a logical replacement and lead to a bold trade this offseason.