They ticked most boxes for the New York Giants in the 2026 NFL draft, but general manager Joe Schoen and John Harbaugh know there’s still room for a veteran defensive tackle like D.J. Reader to replace All-Pro nose guard Dexter Lawrence II, even after the Giants added to the position with sixth-round pick, former Auburn starter Bobby Jamison-Travis, and also added a pair of undrafted free-agent defensive tackles.
The Giants handed former Wisconsin D-tackle Ben Barten $2,500 in guaranteed money on Saturday, April 25, according to Dan Duggan of The Athletic.
Meanwhile, NFL Insider Jordan Schultz also reported the Giants “are signing Colorado DT Anquin Barnes.”
Adding three rookies to the depth chart makes sense as Harbaugh and Schoen cast a wide net for post-Lawrence solutions, but none of these newcomers has the pedigree of Reader. He’s already piqued the Giants’ interest, although there is some debate about how they’ve handled their interest in a potential deal.
Unfortunately, getting any contract signed with the former Houston Texans, Cincinnati Bengals and Detroit Lions nose tackle got a lot harder after the draft.
D.J. Reader Updated Reveals Free Agency Plans
Speaking to reporters shortly after the Giants wrapped up their picks, Schoen and Harbaugh addressed where things stand with Reader. They also revealed plans for any moves at the position during the next phase of free agency.
A question about Reader’s status was put to Big Blue’s primary decision-makers by Duggan. He revealed “Schoen answered broadly that they’ve been in contact with ‘several agents of veteran defensive tackles.’ He said they’ll see what happens next week. They may have a few more visits.”
The reference to “several” contacts with available interior defensive linemen is significant. There are still a few intriguing names on the market.
This article will be updated…
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