Defensive tackle DJ Reader waited nearly two months in free agency before finally finding a new team. The former Detroit Lions defender has now agreed to a two-year contract with the New York Giants worth $12.5 million, with incentives that could push the total value to $15.5 million, according to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN.

While the deal provides Reader with a sizable payday, the veteran defensive tackle enters a challenging situation. He is expected to help replace former Giants star Dexter Lawrence, who was traded to the Cincinnati Bengals last month. Lawrence leaves behind a significant void on New York’s defensive line, giving Reader enormous expectations as he begins the next chapter of his career.

DJ Reader Tasked With Replacing Giants Star Dexter Lawrence

During his two seasons in Detroit, Reader started 32 games for the Detroit Lions and served as a reliable rotational contributor on the defensive line. Across those seasons, he recorded 51 total tackles, four tackles for loss, and three sacks.

However, his production dipped in 2025. Despite appearing in all 17 games, Reader did not record a sack or tackle for loss, raising questions about whether he can adequately replace a player of Lawrence’s caliber in New York.

Lawrence spent seven seasons with the New York Giants after entering the league as a third-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft. During his tenure, he developed into one of the franchise’s most dominant defensive players, earning multiple second-team All-Pro selections and recording 30.5 career sacks.

Frustrated by years of losing, Lawrence eventually requested a trade. The move sent him to the Cincinnati Bengals, where he also secured a one-year, $28 million contract extension.

Giants Defensive Line Undergoing Major Changes

The trade for Lawrence brought the Giants the No. 10 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, which the team used to select offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa. The only defensive lineman the team added during the draft was sixth-round pick Bobby Jamison-Travis.

Reader will now join a defensive front that includes veterans Roy Robertson-Harris and Shelby Harris as the Giants attempt to rebuild the unit.

Detroit Lions Moving Forward on the Defensive Line

Meanwhile, the Detroit Lions will look to move forward without Reader. The team is hoping defensive tackle Alim McNeill can return to form after suffering a torn ACL late in the 2024 season. Detroit will also rely on 2025 first-round pick Tyleik Williams to continue developing after an encouraging rookie campaign.

Reader’s arrival in New York may ultimately serve as a temporary solution as the Giants begin a new era under head coach John Harbaugh. However, replacing a player of Lawrence’s impact will not be easy, leaving the former Lions defensive tackle with significant expectations as he begins his tenure in the Big Apple.