Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle DJ Reader suffered a knee injury during a game against the Minnesota Vikings on Saturday. The incident occurred when Reader's knee buckled while he was being blocked on a Vikings run play. He was immediately carted off the field and subsequently ruled out for the remainder of the game by the Bengals' medical team.

Reader, a former standout player for Clemson University, has been a reliable presence on the Bengals' interior defensive line this season. Prior to the injury, he had already recorded 34 tackles, with two of them resulting in a loss for the opposing team. Additionally, Reader had registered seven quarterback hits and managed to recover a fumble this season.

Having been selected in the fifth round of the 2016 NFL Draft, Reader has showcased his skills in the league by playing in a total of 105 games. He began his professional career with the Houston Texans before joining the Bengals. Known for his strength and versatility, Reader has been a vital asset to the Bengals' defensive unit.

The injury comes at an unfortunate time for Reader, as he was recently listed as the 19th projected free agent for the year 2024 by Pro Football Focus. This recognition attests to his talent and value on the field.

The exact severity of the knee injury has not been disclosed at this time. The Bengals will closely monitor Reader's condition and provide updates on his recovery process as more information becomes available. The team will undoubtedly miss his presence on the field, but they remain determined to overcome this setback and continue to compete throughout the season.

The Bengals, as an organization, sent their best wishes to Reader and expressed their commitment to supporting him during his rehabilitation. The focus now shifts to the remaining games, as the Bengals strive to maintain their momentum and secure victories in Reader's absence.

Given the circumstances surrounding his injury, DJ Reader's resilience and determination will certainly be put to the test. The entire Bengals community, along with fans across the league, eagerly await his return to the field, where his skills and contributions are greatly valued.