The New York Giants are making a serious statement in the trenches, reportedly agreeing to a two-year, $12.5 million deal with veteran defensive tackle DJ Reader, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. This move marks the Giants’ fourth addition at the position this offseason, following the blockbuster trade of star Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals.

Reader, a seasoned pro since entering the league in 2016, brings a wealth of experience to a revamped defensive line. Drafted in the fifth round by the Houston Texans, he spent four seasons there before signing with the Bengals in 2020. After another four-year stint, he joined the Detroit Lions for the past two seasons. Last year, the 31-year-old showed remarkable durability, playing all 17 games and recording 28 combined tackles—though notably, he failed to register a sack for just the third time in his career.

The Giants’ decision to trade Lawrence came ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, sending their defensive anchor to Cincinnati for the No. 10 overall pick. New York used that selection on Miami offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa, while also snagging Ohio State edge rusher Arvell Reese with their own fifth overall pick. Lawrence had been seeking a new contract, and the Giants saw an opportunity to reload through the draft.

Reader now joins a defensive tackle rotation that includes Sam Roberts, Leki Fotu, and Shelby Harris, as the team looks to fill the void left by Lawrence. With 138 career games under his belt, Reader has amassed 328 tackles and 12.5 sacks—a steady presence who can anchor the middle and free up linebackers to make plays.