DJ Reader: Everything you need to know

The Giants agreed to terms with Reader on a two-year, $12.5 million contract Tuesday, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reports. Reader can earn an additional $3 million via incentives. The veteran defensive lineman will turn 32 years old this summer but started all 17 regular-season games with the Lions last season. Reader failed to record a sack in 2025, finishing with 28 tackles (11 solo) while playing 53 percent of the defensive snaps. Reader will help offset the loss of Dexter Lawrence in the middle of the Giants' defensive front.

Reader logged 28 tackles (11 solo) across 17 games with the Lions during the 2025 regular season. Reader played in every regular-season game for the first time since 2018, and his 578 defensive snaps were his highest since 2019. He wasn't overly impactful on the stat sheet, but he still played a key role along Detroit's defensive line. Reader is set to hit free agency this offseason, and he'll likely have to settle for a short-term deal with a low average-annual value.

Reader (back) is active for Monday's game against Tampa Bay. Reader drew the questionable tag for Monday's contest after ending the week with back-to-back limited practices, but the veteran has been cleared to play after going through pregame warmups. Reader has logged nine tackles (four solo) through the first six games of the regular season.