How DJ Reader Aids Lions' Defense

Why Reader can be difference-maker for Aaron Glenn.

The Detroit Lions have made upgrading the defense priority No. 1 early in the 2024 offseason. 

Through a series of moves by general manager Brad Holmes, the Lions have acquired multiple veteran pieces to add to their defense. By acquiring two cornerbacks, a defensive end and a defensive tackle, they've brought in new layers for Aaron Glenn's unit. 

Among the new additions is interior defender DJ Reader, who inked a two-year contract with $9 million guaranteed and worth up to $27.25 million. 

Reader's health was a concern as he entered free agency, as the veteran is continuing to recover from a torn quadriceps tendon. However, he informed reporters in his press conference Thursday that he intends to be ready for the start of the 2024 season. 

The veteran has been extremely productive since entering the league in 2016 out of Clemson. Across his eight NFL seasons, he has posted 23 tackles for loss and 9.5 sacks, while providing a true run-stopping presence as a nose tackle. 

New Lions defensive line coach Terrell Williams touted violence and nastiness as characteristics he's hoping to glean from his players. Based on his skill set, Reader will check off those boxes. 

"That grit, that nastiness. If you're a D-lineman, you're gonna want to play for an environment like that," Reader said. "Guys are gonna fly around, play hard. Your coach is tough-nosed, he's demanding, he's not disrespectful. That's amazing, you want those type of things. As a player, if you don't want that type of stuff, then you don't want to get better. Being here and feeling the energy here, this is definitely a place where people want to come and get better. And, that's from the top-down." 

The Lions do have a talented piece on their defensive line already in Alim McNeill, but the N.C. State product profiles better as a 3-technique or potentially even a 5-technique. By adding Reader, Detroit can free up McNeill to maneuver around the defensive line. 

With this addition, the Lions now have two strong defensive interior options. Last year, injuries led the team to rely on multiple different players and to lack stability. 

As long as Reader is healthy, there should be little concern about what the Lions have up front. 

DJ Reader Expects to Return By Start of 2024 Season

The Clemson product also adds pass-rush ability, as he racked up 34 pressures last season. Though it led to just one sack, that ability can be very beneficial for Detroit's defensive line. 

For example, standout EDGE rusher Aidan Hutchinson faced a plethora of double teams and extra attention last season. With more threats on the interior, opposing offensive lines will be forced to account for the new talent. 

"Aidan's one of the most unique rushers we have in the league right now," Reader explained. "One, you don't have too many people that size who can bend the edge like he can, who's pretty relentless in the rush like he is. He gets hot. He's like a hot shooter. You watch him during the playoffs, those games where he gets multiple sacks, he gets hot, and he's feeling it. That's always fun to play beside." 

The veteran took notice of Hutchinson's performance throughout the NFL postseason. As a result, he's looking to be a guiding force for the Michigan product, beginning in 2024.

"I'm just trying to be there and motivate him," Reader stated. "I know how hot he gets. I want to be on that sideline, when he gets hot. I want to be hyping him up, be his biggest cheerleader on that sideline. When he isn't, I want to get him in that zone. It'll be fun, it'll be fun to be able tap into that young talent."