Five-time Pro Bowler can be an immediate replacement for DJ Reader
On Friday, Cincinnati Bengals' head coach Zac Taylor revealed it's going to take a while for defensive tackle DJ Reader to be back on the playing field. The standout defender was placed by the Bengals on Injured Reserve earlier in the week, ruling him out at least until Week 8. But the final timetable is […]
On Friday, Cincinnati Bengals' head coach Zac Taylor revealed it's going to take a while for defensive tackle DJ Reader to be back on the playing field.
The standout defender was placed by the Bengals on Injured Reserve earlier in the week, ruling him out at least until Week 8. But the final timetable is not set yet.
"It's going to take this IR period to really assess what the final number of weeks is gonna be," said Taylor during Friday's press conference.
Obviously, losing Reader is a tough blow for the Bengals' defensive line. He's a major concern for opposing teams and has established himself as one of the best defensive tackles in the NFL.
Fortunately for Cincinnati, an answer to their woes might be staring at them in free agency. Even at 35 years old, Ndamukong Suh could be an immediate contributor to Lou Anarumo's defense.
Suh remains unsigned after his one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2021 expired. He's publicly expressed interest to play this season which suggests he's physically ready to play, too. Despite being near the end of his career, he was a big contributor for the Bucs even last year.
Despite the discipline question marks that have always surrounded Suh, the Bengals know they could use the help defensively. While the offense is showing signs of life, it's still a unit that needs help significant help from the defensive side of the ball.
There is no other defensive tackle available at this point of the year that could bring the experience the five-time Pro Bowler has.
Featured image via Albert Cesare/The Enquirer / USA TODAY NETWORK
