By Blessing 
The Detroit Lions are entering the 2025 season with high hopes—and a legitimate shot at contending for a Super Bowl. With most of last year’s core roster returning, the team is banking on consistency and chemistry to push them over the top. While they chose to skip this year’s mandatory minicamp, they did hold OTA (Organized Team Activities) practices from May 28 to June 5. These sessions served as the final warm-up before training camp. But for some players, it may have been their last time wearing Honolulu blue during OTAs.
One of those players is veteran defensive tackle DJ Reader, whose time in Detroit appears to be nearing its end.
DJ Reader Likely Headed Toward Final Season with Lions
Reader is entering the final stretch of a two-year, $22 million contract he signed with the Lions. In 2024, he contributed 23 total tackles, four tackles for loss, and three sacks. According to Pro Football Focus, he earned an overall grade of 65.4, placing him 55th among 219 graded defensive linemen. His pass rush grade came in at 64.6, and his run defense rated at 61—both respectable but not standout numbers.
While he’ll still play a role in 2025, the writing is on the wall. Detroit has invested in younger talent on the interior defensive line. Alim McNeill, despite tearing his ACL last December, signed a four-year, $97 million extension in October—clearly signaling he’s part of the team’s future. Through 61 games, McNeill has recorded 137 tackles, 22 tackles for loss, and 11.5 sacks.
Adding to that depth, Detroit also selected Tyleik Williams in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. A former Ohio State standout, Williams made a name for himself as a dominant run defender with sharp instincts and the ability to disengage blocks. While his pass-rushing skills are still developing, the Lions are confident in his potential.
With Reader approaching free agency next offseason and Detroit already set at defensive tackle, it’s likely this will be his final season with the team. His veteran presence will still be valuable, but the future clearly belongs to the rising stars already in the pipeline.