Defensive tackle D.J. Reader has agreed to a four-year, $53 million contract with the Cincinnati Bengals, a source confirmed to ESPN.
The news of Reader’s agreement was first reported by the Houston Chronicle.
Reader, a fifth-round pick in 2016, became Houston’s starting nose tackle in 2017, taking over for Vince Wilfork after he retired.
He gave the Texans an immediate presence in the center of the defensive line, earning praise from J.J. Watt and others on the defense.
Reader, who turns 26 in July, not only excels at stopping the run, but Texans head coach Bill O’Brien said he also “gives us some juice in the passing game.” He had 36 pressures in 2019, according to Pro Football Focus.
In 15 games last season for the Texans, Reader had 2.5 sacks and 52 tackles. He was named a Pro Bowl alternate.
In 61 games over four seasons, he has 6.5 sacks and 154 tackles.
ESPN’s Sarah Barshop contributed to this report.