DJ Reader leaves Lions in free agency to join New York Giants

DJ Reader was a fixture in the middle of the Detroit Lions’ defensive line the past two seasons. But he is now gone after signing with the New York Giants on Tuesday, May 5. Reader, who will turn 32 in July, was one of the Lions’ prized free-agent acquisitions in 2024 after distinguishing himself as a run-stuffing nose tackle during a successful four-year stint with the Cincinnati Bengals.

Upon completing his recovery from a torn quadriceps tendon that offseason, Reader was immediately installed as a starter in Week 2 and quickly helped anchor the front with his stout 6-foot-3, 330-pound frame. He would go on to produce four tackles for loss, including three sacks. He also contributed 13 stops that led to failed results for the offense.

MORE LIONS: Lions' Terrion Arnold eyeing training camp return from shoulder injury “There is comfort to what he is and what he’s able to do for us,” Lions coach Dan Campbell said in July 2025. “He is, he’s a steady force and he can play the nose, he can play the three, he gives you flexibility. " But last April, the Lions appeared to begin preparing for life without Reader when they used their first-round pick to draft Tyleik Williams .

Williams had a similar profile and skill set as Reader, who was about to turn 31. While Reader remained a starter this past fall and would go on to play a full season for the first time since 2018, his impact wasn’t as pronounced as it was in his first year with the Lions. His stat line reflected that, as he didn’t net a single tackle for loss or sack.