The Detroit Lions are already turning their attention to the offseason sooner than anticipated. After an NFC Championship Game appearance in 2023, the team had high hopes for a Super Bowl run in 2024. However, their dreams were cut short by the Washington Commanders in the divisional round of the playoffs, forcing the Lions to focus on improving for the 2025 season as they continue their quest for their first Super Bowl.
Despite their strong 2024 regular season record, the Lions are in a favorable position heading into free agency with the ninth-most cap space in the league. This gives them flexibility, as they won’t be compelled to release veterans, though some may still be let go.
Ben Rolfe of Pro Football Network recently highlighted potential cap casualties for each NFL team, mentioning D.J. Reader as a possible cut for the Lions. While Reader played 15 games in 2024, his stats—23 tackles and 3 sacks—fell short of expectations for a player making nearly $13 million annually. While the Lions could carry his contract or opt for a restructure, they may decide to cut him if they feel his performance didn’t match his price.
Cutting Reader would result in a $4.9 million dead-cap hit but would save $7.9 million. However, it seems unlikely given the uncertainty surrounding fellow defensive lineman Alim McNeill’s recovery from an ACL tear. Reader, known for his run-stuffing ability, had his best season in 2019 with the Texans and Bengals, recording 52 tackles and 2.5 sacks.