The Colts got a second chance to sign a player they were interested in this offseason, and they didn’t make the same mistake
The Colts land a player most of their fan base was begging them to sign
The Indianapolis Colts had a significant need at LB, given the poor play they had gotten from their second starting spot next to Zaire Franklin.
The team was becoming desperate for some consistency from the position, as they had tried every healthy option on the roster through the first five weeks. It had become clear they needed to look for an upgrade elsewhere, and thankfully, a great option fell into their lap this week.
The Colts are signing former Las Vegas Raiders and Cincinnati Bengals LB Germaine Pratt to a one-year deal. To make room, the team also announced that they are placing LB Joe Bachie on IR.
Career facts for New Colts LB Germaine Pratt
- Spent 6 years with Lou Anarumo on the Bengals
- Named a captain under Anarumo
- 7 interceptions and 7 forced fumbles in his career
Colts sign LB Germaine Pratt
Pratt began his career with the Bengals. He had Lou Anarumo as his defensive coordinator after the team selected him in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He started 88 of his 92 games and recorded seven interceptions, seven forced fumbles, 23 pass deflections, 3.5 sacks, and 616 total tackles in six seasons. Like Anarumo, the Bengals chose to move on from Pratt this offseason, making him a free agent.
The Colts had significant interest in reuniting Pratt with Anarumo, but he signed with the Raiders. Sources indicate that the Colts and Raiders were the final two teams in consideration for Pratt, but Las Vegas offered a larger contract and secured the veteran LB.
Things didn’t work out with the Raiders, though, as the team is only 1-4 after five weeks. The Colts dominated them in Week 5, picking up a 40-6 win, but Pratt didn’t travel with the team. It appeared the two sides were heading for a split, which we saw happen shortly after.
The Colts got a rare second chance to sign a player they wanted in the offseason, and this time, they got a deal done. Pratt’s knowledge of Anarumo’s scheme should help him slide right into the starting lineup ahead of the team’s Week 6 game.
Anarumo had a great deal of trust in Pratt during their time together in Cincinnati, as he was one of the captains of his defense. The Colts needed an upgrade at LB, and this was probably the best option available in free agency. The team continues to show they are all in on winning this year.
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