Cincinnati Bengals star defensive lineman DJ Reader left Sunday’s game against the New York Jets with a knee injury that raised big concerns because the team quickly ruled him out.
But in the wake of the big win over the Jets, both comments from Reader himself and head coach Zac Taylor almost made it sound like there isn’t major cause for concern.
That could still change, of course. But Taylor’s comment was vague enough to earn a raised eyebrow: “I just know it’s a knee injury. Hopefully, it’s better than not, but we’ll get more information on that.”
And then there was Reader himself, who took an optimistic slant, as noted via multiple reporters:
DJ Reader said he is very encouraged that the knee injury isn't more severe.
He said he didn't return to the sideline in the second because they wanted him to stay off it. They put the game on in the locker room and he kicked back and took in the win that way.— Jay Morrison (@JayMorrisonATH) September 25, 2022
Just asked DJ Reader if he’s going to be able to play on Thursday, his response: “We’ll see.”
— Kelsey Conway (@KelseyLConway) September 25, 2022
As we noted right after the injury happened, there was always a chance the Bengals were just being super cautious with Reader in a game they already controlled, especially after his serious injury during his first year with the team two seasons ago.
The safe approach for fans is to expect he won’t suit up on a short turnaround to Thursday’s game, but missing a top-five player at his position for a few games is much better than losing him for the season.
