New England Patriots: 5 Landing Spots for Dont’a Hightower

4. Pittsburgh Steelers

He just got finished putting a whooping on them, but he might not be opposed to joining them. They have close to $36 million in salary cap space, and after retaining Le’Veon Bell, they should be able to make a run at Dont’a Hightower.

After having a breakout season, Ryan Shazier and crew could be looking for a defensive player who could offer true leadership. The Pittsburgh Steelers are a young team that has no guidance. As it clearly showed they had problems throughout the season, and gave up numerous big gains due to lack of communication.

Dont’a Hightower can change that a lot. He has been the quarterback of the Patriots’ defense for the defense that has a knack for a bend don’t break defense. The one special thing that he brings to the defense is the ability to assign a job to everyone. He calls out offensive formations and understands the offense.

He can offer versatility along with Shazier, that can rush the quarterback and stuff the opposing run game. Another thing that may attract him to the Steelers, as it does with a lot of players, is playing for head coach Mike Tomlin. Going from a gruff, no-nonsense head coach to a players coach may attract Hightower to come play for them.

Sounds like a long shot, but I wouldn’t be surprised if they make a serious run at him come March.