Reader’s focus wins, not cashing in
Defensive lineman enjoys being in Houston but will worry about contract at end of year
The value of Texans defensive lineman D.J. Reader has skyrocketed this season through a steady beat-down of Reader manhandling blockers.
Reader is in the final year of his rookie contract and is playing the best football of his career.
Dividing his snaps between his natural nose tackle spot and defensive end in the Texans’ 3-4 scheme, the 6-3, 347-pound former Clemson standout has already recorded 42 tackles with a career-high 2½ sacks and 5½ tackles for losses.
The physical presence of Reader has helped make up for the season-ending torn pectoral suffered by defensive end J.J. Watt.
And Reader figures to cash in as one of the top free agents regardless of position in March.
Ideally, Reader would like to be back with the Texans. That’s not his focus right now, though, and he’s not in an active negotiation.
Reader is simply intent on doing his part to propel the firstplace Texans to another AFC South division title and a serious playoff run.
The contract is in the back of his mind, Reader says.
“That’s in the rearview,” Reader said Friday. “I’m just excited to play this year. We’re trying to
make that playoff run.
“I love it here in Houston and being here with my teammates. It’s a good fit. I like the city. It matches up well. It feels like home.”
The Texans drafted the Greensboro, N.C., native in the fifth round in 2016. The 25-year-old has 144 career tackles and 6½ sacks.
Reader has thrived ever since replacing retired Pro Bowl nose tackle Vince Wilfork after a one-year apprenticeship.
“He’s come along very well,” Texans defensive coordinator Romeo Crennel said of Reader. “He understands the system that we use. He knows how to play the technique. He can fit it. He can win one on one. He can push the pocket. I think that combination of things will help him and help his longevity as well.”
Decreasing the frequency of beloved cheat meals and increasing his cardio workouts has made a difference for Reader. He’s playing the game with a lot of energy.
“More cardio; I ran a lot more,” Reader said. “We live in Houston, you know the sun is kind of hot, so it helped out a little bit. It’s been working out well and I think there’s still so much more room for improvement, but I think it was a good focus of mine this offseason.”
Reader also followed the advice of team nutritionist Ladd Harris and maintained discipline in what he eats.
“Yeah, I changed my diet,” he said. “We do a good job around here. Ladd does a really good job around here so that was kind of carrying over. That and then just adding cardio in, and the guys that I train with, they really pushed me.”
Reader would warm up with a mile run, then walk a few laps before running another mile.
As far as food goes, Reader
still enjoyed some tasty meals. Those cheat meals can run the gamut.
“That can be anything,” he said. “It’s kind of spinthe-dial type of thing.”
Reader spells trouble for offenses, wrecking blocking schemes with a powerful charge and quick feet.
“It’s great playing with D.J.,” Texans middle linebacker Benardrick McKinney said. “He’s a great friend on and off the field. He’s a very unselfish player. He does a lot for the defense. He helps the linebackers stay clean. He’s a great player and a great athlete.”
Whether he’s grappling with and stalemating Indianapolis Colts All-Pro offensive guard Quenton Nelson or less celebrated blockers, Reader enjoys what he does.
“It’s good to play against good players,” Reader said. “Every week, you play against the best and do your best. I take pride in that. It’s fun. I love playing with these guys. I’m having a great time.”
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