New England Patriots Digest: Things to watch in training camp

Will Dont’a Hightower be healthy to start the season?

Linebacker Dont’a Hightower was limited in minicamp this June and his status entering training camp is still anyone’s guess. Hightower is arguably the biggest cog in New England’s defense, so the team shouldn’t take any chances regarding his health.

After signing him to a $35.5 million contract this offseason, New England should instead aim to preserve their investment. Adding veteran linebacker David Harris will help fill Hightower’s role if he were to miss any time. Harris has experience as a defensive signal caller and would be a viable replacement option during the preseason.

There’s been no indication that Hightower won’t be ready for training camp. Although he was limited, Hightower was present for New England’s minicamp. Given the abundance of injuries he’s suffered in the past, the team should wait until Hightower is fully-healthy before he participates in training camp. When Hightower is healthy, he has proven to be a force to be reckoned with.