‘Game-wrecker’ is pivotal to Bengals defense
When asked for his assessment of the Cincinnati Bengals’ defensive line, D.J. Reader pointed to several offensive linemen removing their drenched shirts walking off the practice field.
The expectations have changed for the Bengals’ defense, and they’re holding themselves to a higher standard. Reader understands his performance will go a long way in helping his team achieve its goals, and although he’s played only five games in a Cincinnati jersey he’s become a focal point.
“I think as a defensive unit we’re all teaching better,” Reader said. “I think the additions have helped; a lot of guys have played a lot more ball.”
Reader was signed during free agency ahead of the 2020 season to anchor Cincinnati’s defensive line. The 6foot-3, 347-pound interior lineman signed a four-year, $53-million contract which made him the highest paid nose tackle in the NFL at the time. During his four seasons with the Houston Texans, he recorded 154 tackles, 24 quarterback
hits and 6.5 sacks.
He suffered a season-ending quad injury in early October and was placed on
injured reserve. His absence was one the Bengals simply couldn’t overcome. Cincinnati ranked 29th against the run, giving up 148 rushing yards per game, and finished last in sacks with 17.
In addition to what Reader can do in the run game, he’s also shown he’s capable of making plays on opponents’ quarterbacks.
If defensive end Sam Hubbard continues to play at a high level and Trey Hendrickson performs how he did last year in New Orleans, the Bengals could be on their way to fixing one of their biggest weaknesses.
Reader is what offensive coordinators call a “game-wrecker” because of his versatility. Reader embraces his role, and every time he puts his hand in the dirt he thinks one thing to himself:
“Go out there and wreck whatever is in front of me.”
Prior to last season, Reader had never suffered a significant injury. The time spent on the sideline made him even more motivated. His appreciation for the game is greater than ever.
“D.J is one of those guys I love talking to about life and ball,” coach Zac Taylor said. “He’s really mature. He’s a pro, he’s a leader. He sets a standard for us with the way he approaches things.”