The New York Giants have officially signed former Detroit Lions starting defensive tackle D. J. Reader after weeks of speculation surrounding his free agency.

According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, the Giants agreed to a two-year contract worth $12.5 million with Reader. The veteran defensive lineman can earn up to $15.5 million through performance incentives.

The signing comes shortly after a major defensive change in New York. The Giants traded star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence II to the Cincinnati Bengals in exchange for the No. 10 overall pick in the National Football League draft. The team also added defensive lineman Bobby Jamison-Travis in the sixth round of the draft to help reinforce the defensive front.

At one point, it appeared Reader could land elsewhere. NFL insider Jordan Schultz previously reported that multiple teams were interested in signing the 31-year-old veteran. Ultimately, the opportunity with the Giants proved to be the best fit.

Reader played the 2025 season with the Lions, recording 28 tackles before entering free agency this offseason. Over his NFL career, the former Clemson Tigers standout has appeared in 138 games, totaling 328 tackles, 12.5 sacks, and one forced fumble.

By adding Reader, the Giants strengthen their defensive tackle depth following the departure of Lawrence. While New York still has roster areas to improve, the franchise has taken an important step toward addressing a key defensive need heading into the upcoming season.