Veteran defensive tackle DJ Reader will not return to the Detroit Lions for the 2026 NFL season after agreeing to a new free agency contract with the New York Giants, according to NFL insider Jordan Schultz.

ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler reported that Reader signed a two-year, $12.5 million deal with New York, a contract that could rise to $15.5 million with incentives. The move keeps the experienced lineman in the NFC, with the Giants set to play at Ford Field in Detroit during the upcoming season.

Reader spent two seasons with the Lions after joining them on a two-year, $22 million deal in the 2024 offseason. Across 32 starts in Detroit, he recorded 51 total tackles, 12 quarterback hits, and three sacks—all of which came during the 2024 campaign, marking a career-high single-season total for sacks.

In 2025, Reader added 28 tackles and four quarterback hits while continuing to play a key rotational and leadership role on the defensive front. He logged 583 defensive snaps that year, his highest workload since 2021.

Now entering his 11th NFL season at age 32, Reader brings veteran experience from previous stints with the Houston Texans and Cincinnati Bengals. He was originally selected in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft and has built a reputation as a reliable interior presence.

Giants Add Veteran Presence on Defensive Line

Reader’s move to New York comes after a busy offseason of speculation, with multiple teams reportedly interested in his services. At various points, he was linked to a possible return to Detroit or a switch within the division to the Minnesota Vikings. Ultimately, the Giants emerged as the landing spot as they continue reshaping their defensive front.

New York’s need on the interior defensive line grew after roster changes, and Reader is expected to bring stability and run defense support to the unit.

How the Lions Replace DJ Reader in 2026

For Detroit, Reader’s departure marks the end of a productive two-year run. However, the Lions are well-positioned to absorb the loss with a healthier and younger defensive tackle group.

Alim McNeill, who missed time in 2025 due to injury, is now fully healthy and expected to reclaim a major role. Meanwhile, 2025 first-round pick Tyleik Williams is expected to see an increased workload after a solid rookie season that included 18 tackles, a sack, and multiple pass defenses across 17 games.

Detroit also retains depth options in Levi Onwuzurike and Mekhi Wingo, while late-round draft additions Skyler Gill-Howard and Tyre West provide further developmental pieces for the interior rotation.

Although Reader’s departure leaves a gap in experience, the Lions are shifting toward a younger defensive line core as they prepare for the 2026 season.