Cowboys and Vikings named top landing spots for 128-game starting defender

The Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings could be interested in signing a veteran defender who is still on the free agency market.

Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox links the Cowboys and Vikings as the best fits for Detroit Lions free agent defensive tackle D.J. Reader.

"D.J. Reader will turn 32 this summer and isn't the sort of attacking interior pass-rusher that many teams want at defensive tackle. However, he remains a high-end starter, a legitimate force against the run, and a very durable defender," Knox said.

Reader started 17 games for the Lions in 2025, tallying 15 defensive stops and 20 quarterback pressures. The 31-year-old has never been a prolific pass rusher, but has made his mark as a gritty run-stuffing nose tackle.

Dallas could use some depth in their defensive tackle room after trading away Osa Odighizuwa and Solomon Thomas. Reader would be a fantastic addition to the position group, as his 128 games of starting experience would be incredibly valuable.

Minnesota is in need of a traditional nose tackle, and Reader would fill that role. The Vikings also lost Jonathan Allen to the Cincinnati Bengals in free agency, so defensive tackle is a major hole on Brian Flores' defense.

Reader should find a new home sooner rather than later, as his run-stopping prowess would be incredibly beneficial to any team.

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