By Mummy Grace 
Mike Payton of AtoZ Sports just floated a potential move that would send veteran defensive tackle D.J. Reader to the Buffalo Bills in exchange for edge rusher A.J. Epenesa. It’s not a blockbuster, but it could be a cap-saving swap that fills a need.
Let’s break it down: Reader joined the Lions this offseason, but with a deep group at defensive tackle—featuring names like Tyleik Williams, Levi Onwuzurike, Roy Lopez, and a returning Alim McNeill—his spot on the roster may not be guaranteed. He’s set to carry a $12.9 million cap hit in 2025, and Detroit could free up $11.7 million by moving him.
Meanwhile, Epenesa is coming off a solid stretch in Buffalo. He’s not a superstar pass rusher, but he’s consistent—posting six sacks in each of the last three seasons. His pressure numbers (21 pressures in 356 snaps last year) aren’t eye-popping, but his $6.2 million cap hit is much easier to stomach.
Sure, there are still free agents out there who might make a bigger impact, but if the Lions are looking to save money and shore up depth behind Aidan Hutchinson, Epenesa could be a solid short-term answer.
Bottom line? This trade wouldn’t win headlines, but it might help Detroit balance its books and address a glaring hole at EDGE—without breaking the bank.