The Cincinnati Bengals are hoping to keep their playoff hopes alive against the Minnesota Vikings. They may have to make a playoff push without one of their best defenders. In the first quarter, DJ Reader was carted off the field with an apparent knee injury.
#Bengals standout DT DJ Reader, one of their best players on defense, was just declared out after being carted off in pain. He suffered a knee injury.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 16, 2023
Cincinnati Bengals DJ Reader Carted Off Field
Reader’s right knee got bent at an awkward angle in the first quarter. He immediately stayed down and had to be carted off the field. He was very quickly ruled out for the rest of the game signaling that it is most likely a serious injury. Reader has been a huge part of the defense this year totaling 34 tackles, seven quarterback hits, one sack, and a fumble recovery this season. Even worse for him is that this is a contract year meaning this injury might affect his next payday.
Tough Loss For The Bengals
The Bengals have been keeping their playoff hopes alive after the Joe Burrow injury. Jake Browning has looked good but they will need their defense to step up. Reader was a huge part of the run defense and now others will have to step up in his place. At this point, the hope is that the diagnosis of the injury comes back as not serious. No matter the team, we always want to see the best players on the field at all times.
The Cincinnati Bengals will have to continue their game without DJ Reader. Follow Gridiron Heroics for more on this situation as it develops.