New England Patriots: 3 reasons team shouldn’t trade Dont’a Hightower

HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons throws a pass over Dont'a Hightower #54 of the New England Patriots in the second quarter during Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TX - FEBRUARY 05: Matt Ryan #2 of the Atlanta Falcons throws a pass over Dont'a Hightower #54 of the New England Patriots in the second quarter during Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
1 of 3
Next
New England Patriots
HOUSTON, TX – FEBRUARY 05: (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

Dont’a Hightower is the heart and soul of the New England Patriots defense. It would be an insane move if the Pats got rid of him.

Dont’a Hightower is one of the reasons the New England Patriots made the epic comeback in their last Super Bowl victory. Even though he is coming off a brutal pectoral injury, Hightower is one of the best linebackers in the NFL. Why on Earth would you want to trade him?

In the Patriots first preseason game, Hightower was out there for a while. Some would say this was to knock the rust off of Hightower who hasn’t played since last year, but Troy Brown thinks otherwise. The Patriot legend believes that the team was showing Hightower off as they may be looking to trade him.

That would be a bad idea.

More from Chowder and Champions

The Patriots are going to need Hightower this season. So here are 3 reasons the New England Patriots can’t get rid of Hightower.

He is their best defensive player

Looking at the Patriots roster right now, I would say Hightower is their best defensive player. Stephon Gilmore pulled it together at the end of the season, but I want him to have a full season of great work before I label him No. 1.

Hightower is a great pass rusher. We saw that in Super Bowl LI. His strip sack was a turning point in the game. Hightower is also serviceable going back in coverage.

I think Hightower should have a great season this year. The Patriots should have a solid pass rush and under Brian Flores, Hightower should flourish.

Also Hightower will play an important role off the field.