The New York Giants are in their rebuilding phase under new head coach, John Harbaugh. While the Giants try to bolster their defensive roster, they add the former Lions' nose tackle to provide the depth they need in their squad.

NFL reporter Howard Balzer revelead that the Giants are pursuing to sign defensive tackle D.J. Reader in free agency. The report states that the Giants are 'poised' to sign the 31-year-old on April 28.

Reportedly, the New York Giants hosted a free-agent visit with Reader on April 13. It is also believed that Reader visited the Baltimore Ravens to check out his options in free agency.

Reader has played for the Detroit Lions throughout the 2024 and 2025 seasons. Since his two-year $20 million contract with the Lions has come to an end, D.J. is ready to prove his worth with a fresh start.

During his two-year stint with the Lions, he recorded 51 total tackles and three sacks. Before his career with the Lions, DJ was signed with the Cincinnati Bengals from 2020 to 2023.

He played around 44 games and recorded 123 total tackles during his four-year stint with the Bengals. He also played for the Houston Texans for four seasons (2016-2020). 

In a shocking trade before the 2026 NFL Draft, the Bengals chose the Giants’ DT, Dexter Lawrence, in exchange for their 10th overall pick. Therefore, the Giants are in dire need to sign a reliable nose tackle for the squad.

The front office have been presented with various reasons to sign Reader, who brings in experience, physicality and readiness to a team that can’t afford another slow start to their 2026 season.

D.J. Reader's Fit Into The Giants Defense

In the last season, the team saw its worst ranking league-wide against running backs at 5.5 yards per carry. The lack of depth forced Dexter Lawrence to handle the pressure while struggling with an elbow injury.

After Lawrence's departure, the Giants have added Bobby Jamison-Travis for the nose tackle position. However, he lacks the skills and experience which Reader could provide.

Known for his opposing rushing attacks, Reader has the potential to be a reliable run breaker for the Giants. His decade-long NFL career has seen him play 137 games with 128 starts.

With the Ravens also trying to acquire Reader in free agency, the Giants must make the move to secure their defensive line for the upcoming season.

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Written by

Naomi Grace

Edited by

Rishab Nandi