The New England Patriots are reportedly committing to linebacker Dont’a Hightower for two more years.
The Patriots picked up Hightower’s 2016 contract option, a source told ProFootballTalk on Wednesday night. Hightower was selected 25th overall out of Alabama in the 2012 NFL Draft. The one-year option is worth $7.751 million, is guaranteed for injury and will be fully guaranteed at the start of the 2016 league year.
Hightower started 12 games last season, recording 89 tackles, six sacks, two passes defended and a forced fumble. He has started 39 games in his three-year career.
The Patriots also drafted defensive end Chandler Jones in the first round of the 2012 NFL draft. They have until May 3 to pick up Jones’ fifth-year option.
Thumbnail photo via Winslow Townson/USA TODAY Sports Images
