New England Patriots: 5 defensive players to watch vs L.A. Chargers
Dont’a Hightower
A big playoff game?
You better believe New England Patriots linebacker Dont’a Hightower will come up with a big play or two in this game.
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While the talk on offense is whether Rob Gronkowski and Julian Edelman will revert back to their former selves, Hightower turning back the clock will be essential as well.
The once dominant linebacker has noticeably lost a step this season, but he can still be effective in situations. By either stopping the run or applying pressure on Philip Rivers, a resurgent Dont’a Hightower will be just what the doctor ordered for the Patriots defense.
With 48 combined tackles and just one sack during the regular season, the outside linebacker has to be better and set the tone for the entire linebacking crew. The second level of the Patriots defense has been their weakness mostly due to a lack of speed.
Don’t be surprised if Bill Belichick uses defensive backs in linebacker roles to make up for that speed. That would leave Dont’a Hightower to rush the passer more and help plug the gaps in the running game.
If anyone could make a big impact, it is Hightower and the New England Patriots certainly need him to be that player again.