Zac Taylor: DJ Reader in a 'Healthy Mindset'

The metrics show a stark difference in opposing rushing attacks with Reader in the fold.

CINCINNATI — D.J. Reader returned to practice for the Bengals on Monday and head coach Zac Taylor said the defensive tackle is in a "healthy mindset."

"Optimistic," Taylor said about Reader's chances to play against the Steelers on Sunday. "We’ll take it day-to-day once we actually get to see him practice. I think he’s in a healthy mindset right now."

The Bengal star defensive mauler has missed the better part of seven games since going down with a knee injury against the New York Jets in September.

His presence is a major factor in the run game. In weeks 1-3, Cincinnati ranked 14th in rush EPA/allowed and fifth in success rate. Since his injury, the Bengals rank 26th and 27th in those metrics.

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