Giants sign DJ Reader to replace Dexter Lawrence

Giants Strengthen Defense with DJ Reeder

The Giants have adopted a strategy focused on leveraging multiple players to address the gap left by Dexter Lawrence’s exit.

While several new signings helped fill specific needs, the highlight was the recent acquisition of veteran DJ Reeder. He signed a two-year contract worth $12.5 million, with $5.25 million guaranteed through 2026.

This addition had been anticipated for a while, and it has finally materialized.

Reeder, 31 years old and standing at 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 330 pounds, is recognized for his run-stopping capabilities in the NFL. Interestingly, the Giants had plans to team him up with Lawrence before he was traded to the Bengals after the two sides couldn’t finalize a contract extension. In response, the Giants made moves in free agency to secure veteran defensive tackles Shelby Harris and Leki Fotu on one-year deals, aiming to bring in leadership.

Now, Reeder is stepping up to take over as the starting nose tackle. A notable fifth-round draft pick by the Texans out of Clemson in 2016, Reeder has a decade of professional experience, starting 128 out of 137 games with the Texans, Bengals, and Lions. However, he is not known for his prowess as a pass rusher—his career stats show only 12.5 sacks, 27 tackles for loss, and 58 quarterback hits. The Giants, having ranked 31st in run defense last season, are optimistic that Reeder can help rectify some of the issues that new head coach John Harbaugh is looking to fix.

Last season, Reeder played all 17 games for the Lions, managing 28 tackles (with no runs), four QB hits, and no sacks.

The roster also includes veterans Roy Robertson-Harris and Darius Alexander, a third-round draft pick from 2025, along with free agent Sam Roberts. Additionally, in the sixth round of the draft, the Giants selected Bobby Jamison-Travis, a 328-pound nose tackle from Auburn with strong run-stopping potential.

The Giants had hoped to retain Lawrence, recognizing him as one of the finest nose tackles in the league, despite his less-than-stellar performance in 2025. They felt satisfied with what they received in return for him—a valuable No. 10 overall pick in the NFL Draft—and are eager for offensive lineman Cici Mauigoa, expected to step in as the starting right guard.