The Indianapolis Colts continue to have a need at the defensive tackle position. Could this make D.J. Reader a target for them in free agency this offseason?
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The Road So Far
A fifth-round pick in the 2016 NFL draft to the Houston Texans, Reader has been a force at the nose tackle position. Though his size (6’3, 347) has been phasing out of the traditional one-technique mold, Reader is more than just a run-stuffing defensive tackle.
Reader has been a durable piece of the Texans defensive line, having played 61 of a possible 64 games since 2016. His snap count has increased every season since entering the league, helping proves he’s both reliable and productive.
In 2019, Reader recorded 2.5 sacks and 13 quarterback hits. He also had a career-high 36 pressures and 35 defensive stops, per Pro Football Focus.
Fit With The Colts
The biggest need for the Colts on the interior line comes at the three-technique. However, the entire defense would benefit from having a nose tackle like Reader who can be an elite run-stopper while simultaneously providing a push from the top of the pocket.
With Grover Stewart currently the only true nose tackle on the roster, the Colts could bring in Reader to rotate with him. This would give Indy a strong duo against the run with the occasional upside at pass rush when Reader is on the field.
Though he has been solid as a two-gap defensive tackle, Reader’s pass-rushing would benefit from the gap-shooting front for the Colts. Already possessing the ability to stop the run, Reader would be a fantastic fit.
Price
At the age of 25, the Colts would be more than happy to give Reader a multi-year deal. He’s been consistent and reliable enough to where the length of the contract shouldn’t bring much concern. Reader will be expected to see a high pay raise though.
When looking at Spotrac’s market value model, Reader is expected to receive a deal somewhere in the ballpark of five-years for $59 million. The Colts likely wouldn’t do the five years, but the average annual salary of $12 million shouldn’t be something to keep them from being in the mix to sign Reader. That AAV is a fair number for Reader given what the going rate for defensive tackles is.
Conclusion
The Colts won’t be huge spenders in free agency but addressing the defensive tackle position is a must. Reader provides an upgrade at a position of need and while he will get a nice payday, his average annual salary won’t break the bank for Chris Ballard.
If and when Reader hits the market, he should be high on the list of targets for Indy.
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