Jan. 26, 2026, 12:21 p.m. ET

Indianapolis Colts’ linebacker Germaine Pratt is set to be a free agent this offseason. What will his next contract look like, and could he return?

Pratt was an early-season addition to the Colts‘ 2025 roster. After being released by the Las Vegas Raiders, Pratt was signed by the Colts and played 12 games for Indianapolis, which included making 12 starts alongside of Zaire Franklin.

This was a position group in flux for the Colts, but Pratt helped provide some stability.

Pratt was a very reliable tackler, making 101 of his 107 attempts. In coverage, he allowed 29 completions on 45 targets, surrendering 10.2 yards per catch. Pratt had one interception and three pass breakups.

Will the Colts re-sign Germaine Pratt in free agency?

According to Spotrac, Pratt is projected to sign a one-year deal in free agency worth $2.87 million.

Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.

If Pratt’s next contract ends up in that ballpark, the Colts could easily bring him back if they want to. However, my early guess is that the team goes in a different direction.

During GM Chris Ballard’s season-ending press conference, he mentioned the need to get younger and faster on defense. Although Ballard didn’t specify linebacker in that sentiment, that position group applies directly to that.

This is a position that it seems like the Colts will invest in this offseason, whether that be in free agency, the draft, or both.