The Detroit Lions are going to make some moves this offseason to get back to the postseason and avoid missing the dance, again, in 2026. Detroit will have several players hitting free agency, including defensive tackle DJ Reader, who could be on his way out.
Reader has been in the Motor City for the last two seasons, but the Lions shouldn't look to retain him. Instead, they should look elsewhere to get more juice at defensive tackle and replace Reader along the defensive front this offseason.
Lions Need to Find a Replacement for DJ Reader
Back in March 2024, Detroit and Reader agreed on a two-year, $22 million deal. At the time, they believed they were getting a mauler along the interior, but the defender provided average play up front. In 32 games with the Lions, Reader recorded 51 total tackles, four TFLs, and three sacks.
Reader was never known for being much of a pass-rushing threat. Run stuffing is where he made his living, logging 61 then 61.7 run-defense grades from Pro Football Focus over the last two seasons. Those numbers are fine, but the Lions can get more out of the unit.
Going into the 2026 season, the Lions have Mekhi Wingo, Alim McNeill, and Tyleik Williams on the books at DT. McNeil is in the second year of a four-year, $97 million extension, with Williams entering his second season.
They also have Levi Onwuzurike and Roy Lopez hitting free agency, but the odds are they likely want to bring back Lopez. Last season, Lopez finished with 30 total tackles, five QB hits, and two sacks. He flashed as a rotational piece and could also have a future in Detroit.
Reader led Detroit defensive tackles in total snaps (583) in 2025, with McNeill (524) and Williams (446) trailing. Nonetheless, the Lions would be wise to let him walk in free agency and use the money to make upgrades elsewhere.
Spotrac projects Reader to earn an average annual salary of $3.9 million on his next contract, with the projection a two-year, $7.7 million deal. The Lions will expect more from McNeill and Williams in 2026, limiting whatever role Reader would have.
The Lions are better off finding another run-stuffer via the NFL draft or a low-cost free agent. Despite Reader being around for two years, they could use more upfront and appear better off going in another direction.
John Franklin-Myers, Sheldon Rankins, and Sebastian Joseph-Day are other options at the position in free agency who would provide the same quality run-defense with more juice to get after the quarterback.
They'll have other outlets to get more beef along the interior and should let Reader walk. It'll open up more reps at the position, allowing other players to make a greater impact. And that could have a bigger effect on the Lions' defense in 2026.