DJ Reader is one of the best free agent signings in Cincinnati Bengals history. He brought leadership on and off the field in his four seasons in Cincinnati, a crucial time for the franchise, becoming a cornerstone of a defense that played a key role in the Bengals’ run to Super Bowl LVI.
Could Reader return to the Bengals in this year’s free agency frenzy?
Reader weighed in on that scenario on the Up & Adams Show with Kay Adams, and it sounds like he’s certainly open to a Queen City reunion.
First of all, it is refreshing to hear Reader say that Cincinnati “was a pretty special place to be.” He was the Bengals’ first free agent signing in 2020, more than a month before Burrow was drafted.
The Bengals’ run defense became instantly better with Reader on the field. In 2021, Reader finished with 43 tackles. Over his next two seasons, Reader had an 88.0 Pro Football Focus grade, seventh-best among defensive tackles.
Cincinnati needs to get its defensive line, particularly its rush defense, back up to where it can competently stop the run. It could be the first step towards fixing their defense that needs a major rebuild.
Reader became a fan favorite in Cincinnati during his four seasons here. He could be a welcome addition back to the team.
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