DJ Reader’s Future in Detroit: Time to Re-Up or Move On?
Back in 2024, the Detroit Lions made a calculated move in free agency, signing veteran defensive tackle DJ Reader to a two-year, $27.25 million deal. Coming off a 2023 season where they were just a half-game shy of their first Super Bowl appearance, the Lions were looking to shore up the interior of their defensive line - and Reader, despite recovering from a torn quad (his second), was brought in to do just that.
Fast forward to the end of Reader’s contract, and the Lions are now facing a familiar offseason dilemma: do they bring back the seasoned vet for another run, or pivot toward a younger, more cost-effective option?
Let’s break it down.
The Expectations: A Veteran Anchor for a Young Line
Heading into 2025, the Lions were counting on Reader to be more than just a plug-and-play starter. With Alim McNeill sidelined for a few months rehabbing an ACL tear, Reader was expected to be the stabilizing force on the interior. That meant not only holding his ground against the run and absorbing double teams but also mentoring first-round pick Tyliek Williams, who was stepping into a starting role right away.
While the spotlight on Detroit’s defensive front often shines brightest on the EDGE rushers - especially with Aidan Hutchinson commanding attention - the interior line had its own pressure to perform. Reader didn’t have much competition for his starting spot.
Roy Lopez was brought in as depth, while Mekhi Wingo, Tyler Lacy, and Chris Smith were more developmental pieces. The big ask for Reader?
Stay healthy and be a reliable presence up front - something he hadn’t done for a full season since 2018.
The Reality: Solid, but Unspectacular
Reader checked one major box in 2025: availability. He started all 17 games, logging 583 defensive snaps.
But when it came to impact? That’s where things get a little murky.
2025 stats:
- 28 tackles
- 0 sacks
- 0 tackles for loss
- PFF overall grade: 68.5 (36th of 142 interior defenders)
- Run defense: 61.7
- Pass rush: 71.8
- Tackling: 59.8
On the surface, those numbers aren’t terrible. In fact, his PFF grades were up across the board compared to 2024 - except in run defense, which dipped slightly.
But the raw production didn’t match the film. Reader wasn’t blowing up plays in the backfield, wasn’t collapsing the pocket, and wasn’t making the kind of splash plays that change momentum.
In 2024, even while returning from a quad injury, he posted three sacks, four tackles for loss, and a pass deflection. This past season?
None of those. He was steady, sure.
But steady isn’t always enough when you’re 31 and making starter money.
And while Reader didn’t commit costly penalties or miss many tackles, his presence felt more placeholder than playmaker. Meanwhile, Roy Lopez - his backup - made the most of limited opportunities, flashing with the occasional tackle for loss or sack. That contrast only raised more questions about Reader’s long-term role.
Looking Ahead to 2026: What’s the Move?
Reader is now an unrestricted free agent, and the Lions have a decision to make. Let’s weigh the pros and cons.
Why Re-Signing Reader Makes Sense
- Veteran Leadership: Reader has been a mentor to Tyliek Williams and could continue in that role, especially if the Lions add another young DT to the mix.
- Rotational Value: If Reader is open to a reduced role - think situational nose tackle or short-yardage specialist - he could still provide value.
- Locker Room Presence: By all accounts, Reader is a high-character guy who gives back to the community and doesn’t bring drama.
That matters, especially in a young, evolving locker room.
Why It Might Be Time to Move On
- **Cost vs.
Production:** Reader’s market value is estimated around $3.9 million for a one-year deal, with a potential two-year deal worth $7.7 million. That’s a tough pill to swallow for a player whose impact didn’t match the price tag in 2025.
- Blocking Williams’ Development: If Reader returns as a starter, what does that say about Williams? First-round picks are expected to make a leap in Year 2.
If he’s not ready to start, that raises bigger questions.
- Age and Durability: Reader turns 32 in July.
While he stayed healthy in 2025, his injury history and age suggest the Lions may want to get younger and more explosive up front.
What Does Reader Want?
The biggest unknown in all of this? Reader’s mindset.
Does he still view himself as a starter? If so, he’ll expect starter money - even if it’s less than his 2024 deal. But if he’s open to a lesser role and a one-year contract, there could be a path forward in Detroit.
The Lions, for their part, might be willing to bring him back - but likely at a reduced rate and in a rotational role. If Reader is looking for a two-year deal or a salary north of $5 million, that could be a deal-breaker.
The Bottom Line
Reader has been a solid, steady presence for the Lions. He brought veteran leadership to a young defensive line and played all 17 games in 2025. But in a league that values impact and upside, his lack of splash plays, age, and likely contract demands could make him the odd man out.
If he’s willing to return on a one-year deal in the $3-3.5 million range and take on a secondary role, there’s a case to be made for keeping him around. But if he’s looking for a bigger payday or a guaranteed starting spot, the Lions may decide it’s time to pass the torch to Williams and continue building through youth.
Reader’s future in Detroit may ultimately come down to three things: money, role, and timing. And right now, all signs point to the Lions leaning toward a younger, more dynamic future on the interior line.
Stay tuned - this one could come down to the wire.