The former Clemson standout and veteran defensive tackle is set to approach free agency in 2026, and while nothing is guaranteed, Reader made one thing clear: his preference is to stay right where he is.
“I’d love to be here, love the guys, love the coaches,” D.J. Reader said. “You never know how free agency works out. They’ve got some other stuff they’ve got to take care of, so I’m sure it’s more important than me right now. But I’ve enjoyed my time here.”
A Steady Force in Detroit
Reader, 31, is in his second season with the Detroit Lions, after signing a two-year, $27.25 million deal ahead of the 2024 campaign. His role has remained consistent: anchor the interior and absorb the dirty work up front.
In 2024, Reader started all 15 games he played, posting 23 tackles, four tackles for loss, three sacks, eight quarterback hits and a pass breakup. This season, he has again been a fixture in the lineup, starting all 16 games while recording 28 tackles and four quarterback hits for an 8–8 Lions team.
A Decade of NFL Production
Drafted in the fifth round (166th overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans, Reader spent four seasons in Houston before carving out another four-year run with the Cincinnati Bengals from 2020–23. He joined Detroit seeking both stability and a chance to compete on a rising roster.
Across 10 NFL seasons, Reader has appeared in 136 games with 127 starts, compiling 328 tackles, 27 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks. He has also added 56 quarterback hits, nine passes defended, three fumble recoveries and a forced fumble — production that underscores his value beyond the box score.
What Comes Next
While Detroit faces broader roster and contract decisions ahead, Reader’s steady presence has not gone unnoticed. He was recently ranked among the top potential free agents to monitor entering the 2026 offseason.
Whether the next chapter keeps him in Detroit or sends him elsewhere, Reader’s résumé — built on consistency, durability and trench toughness — ensures he’ll have options when the market opens.