The Dallas Cowboys are on the cusp of a golden opportunity to bolster their struggling defense in the 2025 season. A shocking proposed trade with the Detroit Lions, centered around defensive star D.J. Reader, is making waves among analysts and keeping fans glued to the news. Could this be the “gift” from the Lions that transforms the Cowboys’ defense into an impenetrable steel wall? Let’s dive into the details!
D.J. Reader – The Perfect Piece for Dallas
D.J. Reader, one of the NFL’s premier defensive tackles, has proven his worth through standout seasons with the Cincinnati Bengals and, more recently, the Detroit Lions. With elite run-stopping ability (PFF run-defense grade in the 91st percentile over the past three seasons), Reader is a nightmare for any offense reliant on the ground game. Beyond his prowess against the run, Reader can also pressure quarterbacks, as evidenced by his impressive 2.0 sacks and three quarterback hits in a single game against the Chicago Bears last season.
For the Cowboys, their run defense has been a persistent Achilles’ heel, allowing an average of 137.1 rushing yards per game last season—the fourth-worst mark in the NFL. Adding Reader would not only shore up their run defense but also create opportunities for stars like Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence to shine in pass-rush situations.
The Blockbuster Trade Proposal
According to analysts at Pro Football Focus, the Cowboys could capitalize on the Lions’ financial and roster situation to pull off a sensible trade. The Lions are currently dealing with an overcrowded defensive tackle room post-2024 NFL Draft, coupled with salary cap pressures from Reader’s $13 million cap hit in 2025. Some reports even suggest the Lions are considering releasing Reader to free up cap space.
The proposed trade is as follows: The Cowboys would send a fourth- or fifth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, along with a reserve defensive player, in exchange for D.J. Reader. This is a reasonable price, considering Reader is 31 and in the final year of his contract. However, the on-field impact he brings far outweighs the cost, especially for a Cowboys team desperate to bolster its defense.
If the Lions balk at a trade, the Cowboys could wait for Reader to hit free agency if he’s released. However, striking a deal midseason would allow Dallas to immediately leverage Reader’s experience and consistency to fortify their defense for crucial upcoming games.
Why This Trade Could Be a Game-Changer
Under head coach Matt Eberflus, the Cowboys’ defense is slowly regaining its form, but they still need a dominant presence in the middle to control the line of scrimmage. Reader, with his experience as a team captain in Cincinnati and a key role in their Super Bowl 56 run, brings not only physical dominance but also leadership. His presence would give linebackers like Eric Kendricks and DeMarvion Overshown more freedom to make plays while reducing pressure on the secondary by limiting opponents’ ability to establish the run.
Moreover, Reader would be the perfect answer to the run-heavy offenses the Cowboys will face later in the season, such as the Minnesota Vikings with Dalvin Cook or the Philadelphia Eagles with Saquon Barkley. A defense anchored by Reader, combined with Parsons’ speed and Lawrence’s reliability, would give opposing offensive coordinators sleepless nights.
Are the Lions Ready to “Gift” the Cowboys?
While this trade would be a massive win for Dallas, the Lions aren’t likely to part with a player like Reader easily. After signing him to a two-year, $27.5 million deal in March 2024, the Lions expected Reader to be a cornerstone of their defense. However, Alim McNeill’s ACL injury and the emergence of young talent from the draft could prompt Detroit to reassess Reader’s role in their lineup.
If the Lions opt to keep Reader, the Cowboys may need to sweeten the deal, potentially including a third-round pick or a promising young player. Still, given Detroit’s current financial constraints and focus on long-term roster building, they might be open to a trade that brings back valuable draft capital.
Final Take: A Can’t-Miss Opportunity
The D.J. Reader trade isn’t just a tactical move—it’s a statement that the Cowboys are serious about contending in 2025. With Reader’s blend of experience, strength, and leadership, Dallas’ defense could become a true force, capable of carrying the team deep into the playoffs and potentially to the Super Bowl.
Cowboys fans are eagerly awaiting a bold move from the front office, and this trade is the chance to prove their ambitions. Will the Lions truly “gift” Dallas an unstoppable defense? Only time will tell, but this is one scenario no NFL fan can afford to miss!