3 Patriots standouts who are entering their final year in NE

2. Dont’a Hightower

The Patriots will welcome Dont’a Hightower back after he opted out of last season following the birth of his son — and his return couldn’t come soon enough, after the defense was absolutely pillaged in the middle of the field last season.

It’s daunting to speculate about whether Hightower might have lost a step after missing a full year, but his ability to read the game should help him overcome any potential lethargy. Nevertheless, we can’t help but feel like the two-time Pro Bowler is entering his final year in Foxborough.

Not only will Hightower’s contract expire after next season, but the front office might not feel obligated to extend him considering he’ll be 32 by next offseason. Perhaps the Patriots have a change of heart and decide to retain retain him on a one-year deal, but they could potentially find a similarly effective player on the free agent market.

It feels like 2021 will be Dont’a Hightower’s last with the Patriots.

We also haven’t mentioned that the three-time champ reportedly pondered retirement before confirming his return earlier this offseason. Taking that into account, can you really say for certain that he’ll be back next campaign? Hightower clearly loves being a father, so don’t be surprised if he walks away from football after this year to help raise his son.

Even if Hightower does choose to return for another year in the NFL, it would still be surprising if the Patriots give him a new deal. We’d hate for that to be the case, so let’s hope he turns back the clock and enjoys an utterly dominant season at linebacker so New England feels obligated to open negotiations about a new deal.