Detroit Lions defensive lineman D.J. Reader has yet to be confused with the team’s new cornerback D.J. Reed.
Despite the similar names, Reader said the coaching staff has yet to confuse the 6-foot-3, 330-pound D-lineman for the 5-foot-9, 190-pound defensive back when drawing things up or getting out on the practice field.
Speaking with reporters after training camp on Wednesday in Allen Park, Reader joked about the possibility he would get some reps out at the cornerback spot.
“I haven’t made it out there, yet. I keep telling them, if they want to come out on Reader island, it’s lonely out there,” Reader said. “There’s room for one person. It’s a one-man show so if you think you’re getting the ball; it’s over.”
Given the average size for an NFL defensive back is just under 6-foot tall and a bit over 190 pounds, it’d be fairly unprecedented to see the likes of Reader serving as a ball hawk for the Lions.
With no hesitation, Reader called out top Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, letting the back-to-back All-Pro know he’s ready to lock him down.
“They ain’t got me out there on Saint, I’m waiting on my op,” Reader joked, “When I get my opportunity, Saint knows what it is.”
The nine-year NFL veteran smiled after being asked if he played any defensive back before.
“Come on, man. Look at me,” Reader said smirking.
But that didn’t keep Reader from giving himself a nickname and a little catchphrase for if he ever did get the chance to buck his traditional role and get out in the secondary.
“Played all the positions, I am him. Mr. Lockup, it’s clamps over there,” Reader said. “If you come to my side, 98’s side, Exit 98 is always closed.”
Reader is set to play another critical role in the Lions’ defense after starting 15 games as an interior defender last season and amassing 23 total tackles, four for loss and eight quarterback hits.
As one of the most veteran players in the unit, the Lions are counting on Reader to be a playmaker and leader.
In regards to Reader getting time at cornerback; the preseason is for experimenting.
We can only hope to see the Lions’ beefy lineman squaring up with a speedy receiver and finding out what might happen.
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