INTERIOR DEFENSIVE LINE
BIG TICKET PLAYERS
D.J. Reader, Texans
Reader is one of the stoutest and most versatile defensive linemen in the game as he’s capable of lining up all over the line of scrimmage. At 6-4, 337 pounds, Reader plays with a lot of power and athleticism and has sound technique. He may be too expensive for the Texans to retain and is expected to command an annual compensation of $11 million to $13 million. The Denver Broncos, Tennessee Titans and Buffalo Bills are among the teams interested in Reader, according to league sources not authorized to speak publicly. Barring a sudden change in strategy and making Reader a negotiating priority, he isn’t expected to be back with the Texans. The Texans have made Reader contract offers, but started off way too low last offseason, initially at $6 million per year, for him to give them that kind of extreme hometown discount.
Javon Hargrave, Steelers
Run-stuffer who doubles as a disruptive pass rusher. Not tied to any defensive scheme and is capable of lining up in a 3-4 or a 4-3 alignment.
Jarran Reed, Seahawks
Reed is extremely talented, but is inconsistent and hasn’t played as well over the past year as he did in 2018.
Jordan Phillips, Bills
Although Phillips recorded 9½ sacks, he had just 19 additional pressures. He can play defensive end or tackle.
Shelby Harris, Broncos
Harris has emerged from obscurity to dominate for Broncos, but isn’t expected to return.
ANOTHER TO WATCH
David Onyemata, Saints
Michael Brockers, Rams
Brockers is immovable inside. He isn’t a pass rusher, but he’s a stud as a run-stopper.
Ndamukong Suh, Buccaneers
Suh is getting older, but can still be counted on. Last season, the Buccaneers had the best run defense and that was largely because of him and Vita Vea.
SOLID VALUES Gerald McCoy, Panthers
McCoy is still a good interior pass rusher. His run-stopping efficiency wasn’t as good as it used to be last season.
Michael Pierce, Ravens
Pierce is a gritty, energetic run-stopper. He doesn’t provide much pass rush.
TEXANS’ NEEDS
If-when Reader leaves for a huge payday, it will create a giant hole in the Texans’ defense. They may address this spot in the draft and elevate the role of Brandon Dunn, who was signed to a three-year, $!2 million contract. Reader is a unique defensive lineman. He’ll be difficult to replace.