After acquiring wide receiver George Pickens, Pro Football Focus (PFF) suggests the Dallas Cowboys could now turn their attention to defensive tackle DJ Reader ahead of the 2025 season. According to PFF, the Cowboys’ biggest concern lies along the defensive front, a point underscored by Mazi Smith’s underwhelming performance last season. While Dallas added veteran Solomon Thomas for depth, he’s viewed more as a rotational piece than a game-changer. Smith still hasn’t developed into a reliable nose tackle alongside Osa Odighizuwa, who recently signed an extension and has been the driving force on the defensive line.
Still, there’s time for the Cowboys to reinforce this area. With linebacker Kenneth Murray Jr. acquired via trade and Jack Sanborn signed in free agency, bolstering the defensive line could be the final step in reshaping the defense. Targeting DJ Reader from the Lions—possibly through a trade—would make sense. Such a move could even wait until midseason if both teams prefer a deal involving draft compensation rather than risking Detroit releasing Reader for nothing.
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A fifth-round pick in the 2016 NFL Draft, Reader has developed into one of the league’s top run defenders. Now in the final year of a $22 million contract, he remains a force in Detroit. His impressive run-defense grade—ranking in the 91st percentile over the past three seasons—makes him an appealing option for several teams beyond Dallas.
Other Potential Landing Spots for DJ Reader:
Los Angeles Chargers:
The Chargers had a strong run defense last season thanks to Poona Ford and Teair Tart, but with Ford gone and only Da’Shawn Hand added, they’ve taken a step back. DJ Reader could pair well with Tart and give new head coach Jim Harbaugh the physical presence he wants in the trenches.
Baltimore Ravens:
The Ravens could use additional depth on the defensive line. Although Nnamdi Madubuike has been their top interior lineman, adding a proven run-stopper like Reader would strengthen their unit. Reader would be a clear upgrade over players like Broderick Washington and Travis Jones.
Washington Commanders:
The Commanders’ signing of Javon Kinlaw didn’t sit well with fans, especially after the departures of Jonathan Allen, Chase Young, and sack leader Dante Fowler Jr. Reader could bring much-needed stability and help ease the pressure on Kinlaw if his performance doesn’t meet expectations.
