Dont’a Hightower: 5 reasons re-signing is great for Patriots
The New England Patriots are very wise to keep Dont’a Hightower around. Here are five reasons why re-signing him makes them better.
The New England Patriots have a reputation for being blunt and cold with their players. They extend their core players. However, pretty much everyone else is viewed as expendable. So when the Patriots keep a player, it’s safe to say the Patriots like him.
Such is the case with Dont’a Hightower, who New England are re-signing to a four-year deal worth up to $43.5 million with $19 million guaranteed. That’s a pretty big contract for the Patriots, but he’s worth every penny of it. One of the best linebackers in the NFL, Hightower makes his team much better when he’s on the field. Here are five reasons why the Patriots are smart for keeping him around.
5. He Makes Them Better Now
Right now, the Pats are going all-in. Tom Brady isn’t getting any younger and who knows when they’ll be able to find another franchise quarterback. New England realizes this, so they’re going all-in even after winning their fifth Super Bowl. They’re proving this by adding Stephon Gilmore and Brandin Cooks.
Hightower has a similar impact on the Patriots. They have the cap space necessary to add pieces even after throwing a lot money at him and Gilmore. Hightower’s the leader of their defense and their best defensive player. It means a lot to be the guy in charge of the Patriots defense. This is a role guys like Tedy Bruschi have held. To be the defensive captain is an honor, so it’s telling Hightower’s that guy for them.
Bringing Hightower back was important for Patriots' D. He's the descendant of Bruschi and Mayo as leader/communicator. They value that role
— Ben Volin (@BenVolin) March 15, 2017
Sure, his contract is a bit risky. It’s always risky to give a guy with injury problems a four-year deal. But if Hightower stays healthy, he helps them win now. At the end of the day, the Patriots care a lot of about that.