Patriots Rumors: Teams Believe Dont’a Hightower Will Re-Sign in New England
By Nick Ziegler
Recent New England Patriots rumors are that it doesn’t appear that Dont’a Hightower will be leaving New England. What’s the latest news surrounding the star linebacker?
With the offseason underway, there have been plenty of New England Patriots rumors. After making some big signings and trades, the Patriots have still yet to sign linebacker Dont’a Hightower.
After the trading of Jamie Collins to the Cleveland Browns, it appeared like the Patriots were going to be doing all they could keep Hightower. However, they didn’t use the franchise tag on him this season, and he is currently testing the waters of free agency.
Hightower is one of the best defensive players to hit free agency this offseason, and he is set for a nice pay day. As a complete linebacker, Hightower can stop both the run and the pass. Also, he really excels at rushing the passer.
In recent days, the Tennessee Titans and New York Jets have expressed interest in Hightower. According to Ian Rapoport, both teams believe that he is going to be re-signing with the Patriots.
#Patriots LB Dont’a Hightower visited #Jets this weekend and he’s spent time with #Titans, as well. Both left convinced he re-signs in NE
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 13, 2017
Keeping Hightower was certainly one of the top priorities for the Patriots this offseason. Since being drafted by New England, Hightower has had a knack for making big plays in key moments. In the recent Super Bowl win against the Atlanta Falcons, Hightower’s strip sack helped spark the comeback.
Seeing Hightower test free agency shouldn’t be shocking, but it would be a surprise if he left New England. With a good amount of salary cap space still, the Patriots can afford to keep Hightower.
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After the big signing of Stephon Gilmore, the Patriots have shown a new willingness to pay big money. While Gilmore was a solid addition, keeping Hightower is important for all aspects of the Patriots’ defense. If Hightower were to leave, the Patriots would have a difficult time finding his replacement. Even though there is interest elsewhere, don’t expect to see Hightower leaving New England.