The Motor City's own Detroit Lions are gearing up to potentially beef up their defensive line by hosting a visit with free agent D.J. Reader, a notable run-stopping defensive tackle formerly of the Cincinnati Bengals. According to reports from both The Detroit News and Detroit Free Press, the Lions are scheduled to meet with Reader on Thursday.
Reader, who is set to turn 30 in July, has a reputation for being a force against the run, much to the delight of defensive strategists aiming to quickly shut down the ground game. Nonetheless, it's worth noting that Reader's recent seasons have been marred by injuries, including a torn quad that prematurely ended his 2023 campaign. Despite such setbacks, NFL Network and Bleacher Report are optimistic about his potential contribution to the Lions' already sturdy run defense, as per the reports they've filed prior to the upcoming visit.
A deeper dive into Reader's history reveals a player whose contributions can't be neatly summarized by mere statistics. The Cincinnati Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, in a statement obtained by Detroit Free Press, highlighted Reader's impact on the field, asserting, "he just controls blocks. It's a lot of things that people don't see." Praise from a high-level coach like Anarumo underscores the Bengals' high regard for Reader's locker room presence and his dominance in the heart of the defense.
Adding Reader could prove to be a strategic move for the Lions, who have already been adding pieces to their defense, such as edge rusher Marcus Davenport, thanks to a one-year contract. To potentially seal the deal with Reader, who also boasts an impressive 82.3 grade from PFF for the 2023 season, would most certainly provide a significant upgrade to Detroit's squad aiming to solidify an already formidable presence against the run, as noted by atozsports.
