DJ Reader
5th round draft pick by the Houston Texans in the 2016 NFL Draft. Won a National Championship in 2016 with the Clemson Tigers. Team captain and key contributor for the Cincinnati Bengals and Houston Texans. Named to the PFWA All-AFC Team in 2022.
Built to Lead, Driven to Serve
Invest
Cultivate
Elevate
Off the field Success
Family First
Family has always been the foundation of DJ Reader’s identity. Growing up in Greensboro, North Carolina, in a tight-knit and loving household, DJ was surrounded by strong values, support, and resilience. His father, a major influence in his life, helped shape DJ’s sense of responsibility and work ethic before passing away—a loss that became one of DJ’s greatest motivators. That moment shifted his mindset, turning pain into purpose and inspiring him to carry those lessons into every corner of his life. Today, as a father himself, DJ is most proud of the way his son looks at him—with trust, admiration, and love. That reflection drives everything he does. Whether it’s on the field, in business, or through community efforts, DJ’s commitment to showing up for his family is unwavering. For him, success is about more than stats or accolades—it’s about being the man his father raised him to be and the father his son needs him to become.
BUSINESS & LIFELONG LEARNING
DJ Reader approaches life off the field with the same tenacity and curiosity that’s defined his football career. A thoughtful and strategic thinker, DJ has built a growing portfolio of investments across real estate, private equity, and venture capital. He’s especially drawn to fields like construction management and energy trading, not just as business opportunities but as areas of personal interest where he can learn, grow, and make a long-term impact. DJ is intentional about surrounding himself with trustworthy, knowledgeable people and takes pride in doing the work to understand the industries he steps into. He sees business as a continuation of the discipline football taught him—study the playbook, trust your team, and execute with purpose. Even in his downtime, he’s expanding his thinking—diving into podcasts, books, and conversations that challenge him. Whether it’s exploring new sectors or collecting trading cards as a hobby, DJ never stops seeking new ways to grow.
A Son Never Forgets Foundation
Giving back isn’t just a mission for DJ Reader—it’s a responsibility he lives out through his nonprofit, A Son Never Forgets (ASNF). The foundation was created in honor of his late father, whose impact still guides DJ’s life and values. ASNF focuses on uplifting students and underserved communities by providing resources, mentorship, and tangible support. From backpack drives and school supply giveaways to fully stocked resource rooms in schools, DJ ensures the foundation’s work creates lasting impact. His vision is rooted in access—making sure young people have the tools they need to succeed and the belief that someone is in their corner. DJ shows up for the community not just with donations, but with presence—attending events, talking to students, and showing young people what’s possible. ASNF is more than a foundation. It’s a movement built on legacy, love, and lifting others the way DJ’s family once lifted him.
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