The New York Giants have signed veteran nose tackle D.J. Reader to a two-year deal, enhancing their defensive line. Reader, known for his strong run-stopping ability, is expected to bring leadership and experience to the team.
Key points
New York Giants signed D.J. Reader to a two-year deal
Reader is a 6-foot-3, 330-pound nose tackle
He is known for his run-stopping ability
Reader brings leadership and experience to the team
His signing marks a transition in the Giants' defensive line
New York Giants
New York Giants signing D.J. Reader: 5 things to know about the DT
The New York Giants have bolstered their defensive interior by agreeing to terms with veteran nose tackle D.J. Reader on a two-year deal on Tuesday.
A 6-foot-3, 330-pound run-stuffer, Reader brings proven production, leadership, and intangibles to a unit transitioning after the Dexter Lawrence era. Readerâs journeyâfrom multi-sport phenom to community pillarâshows the resilience and character that Giants fans will quickly embrace in East Rutherford.
Hereâs why heâs poised to make an immediate impact for Big Blue.
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Q&A
What are the details of D.J. Reader's contract with the New York Giants?
D.J. Reader signed a two-year deal with the New York Giants.
How does D.J. Reader's signing impact the Giants' defense?
Reader's addition is expected to strengthen the Giants' defensive interior and provide leadership during a transition period.
What are D.J. Reader's physical attributes and playing style?
D.J. Reader is 6-foot-3 and weighs 330 pounds, known for his strong run-stopping capabilities.
Who did D.J. Reader replace on the Giants' defensive line?
Reader is joining the Giants' defensive unit as they transition after the Dexter Lawrence era.
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Multi-sport athletic pedigree fuels his game
Reader starred at Grimsley High School in Greensboro, North Carolina, not just on the defensive line and as an offensive guard in football, but as a starting center in basketball and a standout pitcher/first baseman in baseball. He threw in the low 90s and hit over .500 with power.
At Clemson, he lettered in both football and baseball in the same yearâa rare accomplishmentâdrawing on deep family athletic roots, including his grandfatherâs Negro League background. That well-rounded explosiveness and coordination translate to NFL dominance in the trenches.
Elite run-stuffer who builds "body armor" in the weight room
As a classic nose tackle and gap controller, Reader clogs running lanes with leverage, technique, and sheer mass. He pairs this with dedicated in-season heavy liftingâbenching 365-plus poundsâto create physical resilience. Giants coaches will love how his tireless preparation anchors the front against the run-heavy NFC East.
Battle-tested resilience through major injuries
Reader has overcome a torn quad (2020), torn MCL (2022), and torn quadriceps tendon (2023), returning each time as a reliable starter for playoff contenders. This grit will stabilize the Giantsâ defensive line amid inevitable bumps in a physical 2026 season.
Heartfelt leadership born from personal loss
Reader lost his father, David Sr., to kidney failure during collegeâa blow that nearly derailed him. In response, he founded the A Son Never Forgets Foundation, which hosts football camps, scholarships, health programs, and reading rooms in his hometown. Heâs also a dedicated National Kidney Foundation supporter, running charity events that have raised significant funds. Giants fans will see a player who leads by example on and off the field.
Community champion and award-worthy teammate
A multiple Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year nominee, Reader has logged over 4,000 volunteer hours with back-to-school drives, turkey giveaways, and more across his stops. His âglass half fullâ mindset and family-first values make him a locker-room leader ready to mentor younger Giants defenders while giving back in the New York/New Jersey area.