The Cincinnati Bengals filled a significant gap in their defensive line by acquiring DT D.J. Reader in 2020. Over the last four seasons, he became an essential component of their defense, and his absence was noticeably felt when he was not on the field. Now with the Detroit Lions, the Bengals might realize the impact of missing him greatly. However, they were not willing to match the offer made by the Lions, which was unexpected for Reader.
“I was a bit surprised,” Reader shared during his introductory press conference with the Lions, as stated on the team’s website, reflecting on his departure from the Bengals. “You always hope that things will pan out in the best possible way where you currently are.”
Selected in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft by the Houston Texans, the Cincinnati Bengals made him the highest-paid defensive tackle in NFL history in 2020. Despite posting 154 tackles, three sacks, and one forced fumble in 44 games, the impact of a defensive tackle goes beyond these conventional stats.
One notable issue for Reader has been his health. Playing only 44 games in four years averages to just 11 games per season, whereas the Bengals typically play 16.5 games annually during his tenure. He missed 11 games in his first season and six in 2022. Even last season, he ended the year with an injury and is currently in recovery. Leaving the Bengals, compared to the Texans, has proven to be more challenging for Reader due to the strong emotional connections he had with his former team, which even took him to the Super Bowl. Despite the sentimental ties, he acknowledges that sometimes relationships don’t work out, necessitating a move.
The Bengals still have B.J. Hill and recently added Sheldon Rankins through free agency. However, they will require additional reinforcements before the regular season begins, as Reader was a crucial component of their defensive unit, excelling at both stopping the run and disrupting opposing offenses. While Cincinnati tried to retain Reader, the Lions displayed greater interest in securing his services. Similarly, the Lions seemed to outbid the Pittsburgh Steelers for CB Cameron Sutton last year, underscoring the importance of such maneuvers now.
Considering his extensive injury history, caution is warranted with an aging player like Reader, who is recuperating from his second torn quad since joining the Bengals in 2020. Regardless, Reader is determined to demonstrate that he still possesses the ability to perform at an elite level, similar to his early career success.
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