Detroit Lions Sign D.J. Reader

The Detroit Lions clearly made their defense a top priority heading into the postseason.

General manager Brad Holmes took the latest step toward bolstering the talent on the unit by acquiring defensive tackle D.J. Reader. The organization signed the defensive tackle to a two-year contract Thursday worth up to $27.25 million.

Detroit has been linked to Reader throughout the early tampering period, as reports surfaced of the team's interest early in the process. He was reported to be visiting the organization on Thursday.

The defensive tackle is coming off a quad tendon injury suffered late in the 2023 season, so his medicals were an important part of his free agency process.

Detroit was clearly in on multiple free agents at the position, as reports indicated the team was also pursuing top defensive tackle Christian Wilkins. However, Wilkins elected to sign with the Las Vegas Raiders.

Reader is an established veteran who works best as an interior defender and at the nose tackle position. Last season, he managed 34 tackles and one sack along with a Pro Football Focus overall defensive grade of 82.2. 

All of the Lions' external free agent additions to this point have been defenders. On Monday, they agreed to contract terms with defensive end Marcus Davenport and traded for cornerback Carlton Davis.

Tuesday, the organization signed cornerback Amik Robertson to a two-year deal. As a result, they will have a retooled defensive effort in 2024.