Pratt's Return: Bengals LB Reunited With Former Coach

Former Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Germaine Pratt is set to take the field this Sunday, potentially playing alongside a familiar coach. The Indianapolis Colts announced on Saturday that they have elevated Pratt from their practice squad for their matchup against the Minnesota Vikings.

Pratt returned to Indianapolis on October 13, 2026, after previously starting 12 games for the team in the prior season. His elevation allows him to play once again under defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, who coached Pratt throughout his six seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Pratt initially joined the Colts in October 2025 after being released by the Las Vegas Raiders. He concluded the 2025 season with 101 tackles, one interception, and one forced fumble for Indianapolis. His prior experience in Anarumo's defense was a significant factor in the Colts' decision to bring him back earlier this month.

Cincinnati originally selected Pratt in the third round of the 2019 draft. He participated in 96 regular-season games, with 88 starts, before the Bengals released him in June 2025. A defining moment for Bengals fans was his interception of Derek Carr, which secured Cincinnati's wild-card victory over the Raiders after the 2021 season, ending the team's 31-year playoff victory drought.