D.J. Reader, with a determined spirit and a sense of accomplishment, has landed in Detroit after bidding farewell to Cincinnati, where he played a pivotal role in the team’s transformation over four years and even made it to the Super Bowl.
Reflecting on his departure from the Bengals, Reader expressed mixed emotions but acknowledged the inevitability of changes in free agency and the impact of injuries on his decision.
Despite the challenges, Reader left Cincinnati with a sense of satisfaction, knowing that he had contributed to building a better team than when he arrived.
Arriving in Cincinnati in 2020, Reader witnessed a struggling team that had just come off a dismal 2-14 season. However, with key additions like quarterback Joe Burrow in the 2020 NFL Draft, the Bengals began to turn the tide, culminating in a surprise Super Bowl run in 2021.
Throughout his time in Cincinnati, Reader faced his own injury setbacks, including quad tears and other minor injuries. Despite the hurdles, Reader remained a dominant force on the field and is confident in his ability to return to peak performance following his latest injury.
Now in Detroit, Reader joins a talented defensive line and looks forward to teaming up with fellow lineman Alim McNeil and Pro Bowler Aidan Hutchinson.
The Lions, fresh off an NFC Championship Game appearance, are counting on additions like Reader to push them to new heights in the upcoming season.
