New England Patriots: 3 players who will make ESPN's 2019 list

New England Patriots predictions: 3 players who will make ESPN’s 2019 list

By Sam Minton | Aug 28, 2018

ARLINGTON, TX - APRIL 26: A video board displays an image of Sony Michel of Georgia after he was picked #31 overall by the New England Patriots during the first round of the 2018 NFL Draft at AT&T Stadium on April 26, 2018 in Arlington, Texas. (Photo by Tim Warner/Getty Images) /

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FOXBORO, MA – SEPTEMBER 10: (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images) /

Dont’a Hightower

Dont’a Hightower isn’t on the list because he was injured last season. Now that he is healthy, I think we will be seeing the dominant linebacker terrorize offenses once again.

Hightower is a beast coming off the edge. He is able to get past offensive lineman and put the quarterback on the ground. He isn’t bad in coverage either.

Hightower is the heart and soul of the Patriots defense. He calls the plays and is a leader both on and off the field. Just because he is back the entire Patriots defense should be much better.

I expect Hightower to be a tackling machine this season, and even have a few strip sacks. Even though he is coming off an awful torn pec, I think Hightower will be the great linebacker that Patriots fans remember.

If Hightower is successful this season there is no way he isn’t on the top 100.

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