The Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings are eyeing a potential boost to their defensive lines, with veteran defensive tackle D.J. Reader still available on the free agency market.
D.J. Reader, who will be turning 32 this summer, might not be the flashy interior pass-rusher some teams crave, but he’s a rock-solid starter with a reputation for being a run-stopping powerhouse.
Last season, Reader suited up for the Detroit Lions, starting all 17 games and racking up 15 defensive stops alongside 20 quarterback pressures. While he’s not known for sacking quarterbacks, his ability to clog up running lanes makes him a valuable asset.
For the Cowboys, adding Reader could be a strategic move. After parting ways with Osa Odighizuwa and Solomon Thomas, Dallas finds itself in need of depth at the defensive tackle position. Reader’s wealth of experience, with 128 starts under his belt, would bring a seasoned presence to their lineup.
On the other hand, the Vikings are on the hunt for a traditional nose tackle. With the departure of Jonathan Allen to the Cincinnati Bengals, Minnesota has a noticeable gap in their defensive front. Reader fits the bill perfectly, offering the kind of run-stopping ability that could fortify Brian Flores' defensive scheme.
Given his track record, Reader’s skills are likely to be snapped up soon, providing any team with a significant boost in their run defense.