The Detroit Lions have just one game left in what has become a frustrating and disappointing season, and major roster decisions loom once the offseason begins.

After being officially eliminated from playoff contention with a Christmas Day loss to the Minnesota Vikings, the Lions now face a long offseason filled with difficult choices. That includes deciding the future of several key free agents—among them, veteran defensive tackle DJ Reader, whose time in Detroit may be coming to an end.

Lions Facing a Tough DJ Reader Decision

According to SI.com reporter John Maakaron, the Lions are expected to make several notable changes in free agency after years of careful roster construction under general manager Brad Holmes. One of the most surprising possibilities is the departure of DJ Reader.

Reader signed a two-year, $27 million contract with Detroit ahead of the 2024 season, but Maakaron predicts the Lions could move on despite the veteran’s desire to return.

“I’d love to be here, love the guys, love the coaches, so we’ll see,” Reader said via the Detroit Free Press. “You never know how free agency works out.”

Reader acknowledged the business side of the NFL, noting the Lions have other priorities to address this offseason.

DJ Reader’s Production With the Lions

Reader started 31 games over the past two seasons, recording 51 total tackles. While he posted three sacks during the 2024 season, when Detroit finished an impressive 15–2, his pass-rush production declined in 2025, as he finished the season without a sack.

While sack totals are often used to evaluate defensive linemen, Reader’s role has never been centered on flashy statistics.

DJ Reader’s Hidden Value on the Defensive Line

Reader’s impact often goes unnoticed on the stat sheet. His primary responsibility is absorbing double teams, controlling the interior, and freeing up teammates to make plays.

Former Bengals defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo once explained why Reader is so difficult to replace:

“D.J. is a hard guy to replace… He controls blocks, takes on double teams, and doesn’t get moved. That allows other people to make plays.”

That type of interior dominance has long been valued by coaching staffs, even if it doesn’t show up in box scores.

Why the Lions Could Still Move On

Despite Reader’s leadership and reliability, the Lions may prioritize other positions in free agency. Detroit struggled to generate consistent quarterback pressure—especially after Aidan Hutchinson’s season-ending injury—and may focus resources on pass rush help.

Additionally, the Lions’ late-season collapse, including three straight losses that knocked them out of the playoff race, could prompt broader roster changes as the team looks to reset for 2026.

What’s Next for the Lions?

As Detroit enters a critical offseason, decisions on veterans like DJ Reader will shape the next phase of the franchise. While Reader has expressed his desire to stay, salary cap considerations and positional needs may ultimately push the Lions in a different direction.

Whether Detroit chooses continuity or change, the future of their defensive front will be one of the most important storylines to watch this offseason.