Even after a very strong 2026 NFL Draft, the Baltimore Ravens should look to continue to add to their roster. There’s a good class of rookies coming in, but there remain some opportunities to reload in the coming months. They’re entering some pivotal weeks.
For now, all attention is turned toward rookie minicamp. This weekend could be very telling about which rookies have a role in 2026. However, there are still some talented free agents available. Near the top of the list? D.J. Reader.
The New York Giants are believed to be the favorite to sign Reader. Recently, though, they signed two other interior defensive linemen in Shelby Harris and Leki Fotu. They are reportedly still in the mix for Reader, but for the Ravens, who have also expressed interest in Reader, this could be their opportunity to strike and sign another one of the top free agents left on the market.
Baltimore Ravens could steal top free agent away from John Harbaugh’s New York Giants
Baltimore just signed Calais Campbell on Thursday. He figures to be an immediate contributor. But there may be one more need at the nose tackle spot. Reader would fill that.
Baltimore has been searching for help on their interior defensive line. Travis Jones is on the rise and just had an excellent 2025 campaign. John Jenkins is a solid rotational piece, and Nnamdi Madubuike, despite the injury uncertainty, has seen some optimism surrounding his status. And even after signing Campbell, who will take a heavy load of reps, they may not be done adding to that area.
Reader would be much better than any depth option on the interior. Broderick Washington Jr. could be a cut candidate, and Aeneas Peebles may be a pass-rush only. type of player. The Ravens did draft Rayshaun Benny in the 2026 NFL Draft, and although he’s gotten praise, he's also just a seventh-round pick. Clearly, behind the group of Madubuike, Jones, Campbell, and Jenkins, there could be a need for one more piece, especially at nose tackle. Reader could be that.
The 31-year-old would instantly slot in as a reliable piece. He’s started in 128 games across his 10-year career, consistently holding it down as a space eater in run defense. And while he doesn’t have the sack numbers of a productive pass rusher (12.5 career sacks), he uses his size and power to collapse the pocket and make opposing quarterbacks feel uncomfortable. Even then, the stability in run defense is what Baltimore could use more of.
Ultimately, Reader may be on a first-class trip to the Big Apple. Reports are still signaling that the Giants are in on him, even with their other veteran depth signings. The Ravens could find themselves back off, too, after their deal for Campbell. Sure, they play two different positions on the interior, but it may not be worth another investment so soon.
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