The Dallas Cowboys are a team in desperate need of linebacker depth. They could also use the services of a free agent linebacker such as Donta Hightower. The one-dimensional linebacker is aging and is not as versatile as his younger teammates. Teams looking to fill that need include the Denver Broncos, Los Angeles Rams, and Las Vegas Raiders, led by former Patriots Josh McDaniels and Dave Ziegler.
He
Donta Hightower has been a nightmare for opposing offenses during his career with the Oakland Raiders and the Minnesota Vikings. The third-year standout was named the starting middle linebacker by Bill Belichick. Along with Kyle Van Noy and David Harris, Hightower is the only returning starter from last season’s roster. He has the ability to play on and off the line of scrimmage, depending on the offensive alignment.
Hightower is a former first-round pick of the Patriots. The first-round selection in 2012, Hightower racked up 65 tackles and was named to his first Pro Bowl. Hightower has also made the top-10 scoring defense in each of the last three seasons. In 2016, he was named to the first-team scoring defense and the Patriots finished first in the scoring defense category. In addition to his pro-football career, he has played on the NFL’s top teams in every season.
Collins
The New York Jets have signed former safety Donta Hightower Collins to a one-year deal. Fuller has already made 22 tackles and forced two fumbles as a rookie. He will be a starter for the remainder of the season as veteran Charles Tillman is out with a torn triceps. The team will also likely be without veteran cornerback Charles Woodson, who had an injury-plagued season last season.
Boykin
Donta Hightower, Donta Boykin, and Malcolm Butler are all great players, but who was better last season? The New England Patriots’ defensive line was a major strength, and a defensive player like Boykin can help make up for any deficiencies on the interior. These three players are known for their athleticism and toughness, and they can both tackle the quarterback and run the ball.
Tim Hightower, a former first-round pick of the Patriots in 2012, scored a touchdown in his professional debut and earned the starting role for his rookie season. Hightower has become a team leader since the day he was drafted. His leadership has been praised from day one, and he has continued to improve as the season has gone on. This season, the Patriots are counting on him to make a big impact on the game.
Mr. February
Super Bowl MVP Donta Hightower has earned the nickname “Mr. February” from Bill Belichick. The veteran linebacker recorded two sacks, two quarterback hits, and two tackles for loss. He also had a pass breakup. When the Super Bowl LIII was over, Belichick referred to Hightower as “Mr. February.” Hightower’s nickname was appropriate, considering that his performance was instrumental in the Patriots’ three championships.
While Hightower might not be the most athletic linebacker in the NFL, he is a pro with instincts and a high ceiling. He outplays his competition and makes big plays, which is why he is so valuable to the Patriots. Hightower’s instincts are a key reason for him making such big plays in the most crucial games. Belichick also praised Hightower’s mentality, which many people overlook when judging great players.
James White
New England signed Donta Hightower as an unrestricted free agent on March 16, 2017, clearing close to $4 million in salary cap space. In 2012, New England selected Hightower with the 25th overall pick. Hightower was a solid starter for the Patriots last season, registering 64 tackles, one sack, and four quarterback hits. Hightower is expected to make the team for at least the first two years of his contract.
In 2009, Hightower was placed on injured reserve following a knee injury. He missed the remainder of the season, and was replaced by freshman Nico Johnson in the weak-side linebacker spot. Hightower posted nine solo tackles and one sack in Week 1 against the Kansas City Chiefs. In Week 2, he recorded six tackles and a sack, but did not play in Week 3, when the Falcons won by three touchdowns.
