Giants Host Potential Dexter Lawrence Replacement

D.J. Reader visits New York as star DT Lawrence requests trade

Apr. 13, 2026 at 10:33pm

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A cubist-style painting depicting a fragmented, geometric interpretation of a defensive line, with sharp planes of blue, green, and brown hues, conveying the conceptual uncertainty surrounding the Giants' defensive tackle position.The Giants' defensive line faces an uncertain future as the team explores options to potentially replace star tackle Dexter Lawrence.Houston Today

The New York Giants are exploring options to potentially replace star defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence, who recently requested a trade. The team hosted free agent defensive tackle D.J. Reader for a visit, raising speculation that the Giants may be preparing for life without Lawrence.

Why it matters

The Giants are facing a critical offseason as they look to build around their core players. Lawrence's trade request has created uncertainty, and the team appears to be doing its due diligence on potential replacements like Reader in case they ultimately decide to move on from the disgruntled star.

The details

Reader, a former fifth-round pick of the Houston Texans, has established himself as a solid, serviceable option at defensive tackle in recent years with the Cincinnati Bengals and Detroit Lions. However, a neck injury cut his 2025 season short, which may give some teams pause. The timing of Reader's visit to the Giants shortly after Lawrence's trade request suggests the team is weighing its options, potentially seeking a proven veteran to complement a rookie addition in the 2026 NFL Draft, which features a limited but high-quality group of defensive tackle prospects.

  • On Monday, reports indicated that D.J. Reader visited the Giants.
  • Reader previously visited the Baltimore Ravens.

The players

Dexter Lawrence

The Giants' star defensive tackle who recently requested a trade.

D.J. Reader

A free agent defensive tackle who previously played for the Cincinnati Bengals and Detroit Lions, and visited the Giants as they explore options to potentially replace Lawrence.

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What’s next

The Giants will continue to evaluate their options at defensive tackle, including potentially drafting a rookie to complement or replace Lawrence if they decide to trade him.

The takeaway

The Giants' interest in Reader suggests they are preparing for the possibility of life without Lawrence, their star defensive tackle. This offseason will be critical for the team as they look to build around their core players and address key needs on the roster.