Without question, Wilson, the leader of the linebacker room, has emerged as a cornerstone of the Bengals' defense over the last five seasons. Although he missed the last five games last season, he was on pace to smash his previous career-high in tackles (135) with 104 through 11 games.

Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow had nothing but good things to say during mandatory minicamp after the team released linebacker Germaine Pratt . The Bengals released Pratt in a cost-cutting measure after the veteran requested his release back in February, but only after revamping the position via free agency and the draft.

Pratt was set to enter the final season of his three-year contract in 2025. He inked the deal, worth more than $20 million, in 2023. In releasing Pratt, the Bengals will incur $2.3 million in dead money against the salary cap. He was set to earn a $5.25 million salary for the 2025 season.