New England Patriots: All-Decade Team of the 2010s

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - DECEMBER 29: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots looks on during the game against the Miami Dolphins at Gillette Stadium on December 29, 2019 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. The Dolphins defeat the Patriots 27-24. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

18 of 23

Linebacker – Dont’a Hightower

Dont’a Hightower has been a staple in the organization since being drafted in the first round in 2012. After playing for a longtime friend of Bill Belichick in Nick Saban at Alabama, Hightower has been a perfect fit for the New England Patriots and Belichick’s defensive system.

Since 2014, Hightower has started every game he’s been available for the Pats, and he wears that No. 54 jersey with great pride (just like Teddy Bruschi did before him). From just about the beginning of his career, Hightower has been the leader of the defense, and he ensures everyone is doing their job.

The Patriots have designed their defense to be built around the dynamic linebacker. Hightower is a three-time Super Bowl champion. He ranks 17th all time in franchise history with 317 solo tackles (505 total).

Home/All-Time Lists