25 former college football players destined to be future head coaches

6. Dont’a Hightower, former Alabama linebacker

There is the idea that if you play a position, you can play that position anywhere. For example, if you can play wide receiver, you can play flanker, split or in the slot. That is simply not true. So is the same with linebackers.

Dont’a Hightower has mastered every linebacker position on the field in any formation. Hightower can play 4-3, 3-4, 3-3-5, 4-2-5, nickel or dime. Hightower is the prime example of an every-down linebacker.

Hightower can cover, play the run and rush the passer.  Thie versatility in Hightower’s game demonstrates next-level preparation and understanding of the game in addition to physical gifts. These are criteria that can make a good head coach.

Hightower has sat under quite the learning trees. While at Alabama, Hightower learned the ins and outs of the 3-4 defense from two of its masters, Nick Saban and Kirby Smart. While in the NFL, Hightower learned from the great Bill Belichick, Brian Flores and Pepper Johnson.

Greatness begets greatness. Hightower has learned from some of the best coaches in the game. It shows on the field and could show on the sidelines.