DJ Reader Says, “I Always Want to be Here,” About His Desire to Return to the Bengals While His Rehab Continues
Cincinnati —DJ Reader, a free agent defensive tackle for the Bengals, stated on Monday that he hopes to play for the team again before the 2024 season starts, even as he heals from a torn quadriceps injury sustained last month.
The reader stated, “I hope so,” in reference to the Bengals re-signing him. Being wanted is usually a nice thing. Though I can’t really control things like that, I hope so. Furthermore, I don’t spend a lot of time worrying about them.
After an injury-plagued season, Cincinnati must decide whether to pursue or let go of Reader, one of its few dependable players.
“When you come to something, you want to feel like you’ve made it better while you’ve been here,” the reader stated. My personal growth has been greatly influenced by my constant desire to leave things better than when I found them. I really, truly want to be here, and I want to be here at all times. I adore the men and the changing area. Clearly, these past four years have been fantastic for me.”
Prior to the quad tear, Reader was having an excellent football season, with an 82.2 PFF grade over 535 snaps. Even so, coming into his tenth NFL season, it’s reasonable to wonder if he can perform at that level while recovering from a serious injury.
Regarding retirement, Reader remarked, “Going in and out of rehab all the time and always spending your time doing that process is tough.” Although it can be mentally draining, I simply feel like I have a lot of excellent ball left in me. It seemed like I was in my prime throughout this year. That’s not how I actually want to end it.
”
