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Jason LaCanfora reports the Jets are currently a leading contender for the services of free agent linebacker Dont’a Hightower.
Jets and Pats appear to be leading the pack to sign LB Dont'a Hightower but several others monitoring closely as well
— Jason La Canfora (@JasonLaCanfora) March 12, 2017
Hightower has spent his five year career with the Patriots. He is another player the Jets passed on in the 2012 Draft to take Quinton Coples.
Hightower has grown into one of the top linebackers in the league. He made his first Pro Bowl in 2016 and was on the AP’s All Pro Second Team (although it is worth noting that ten linebackers gained that designation on top of the three on the AP All Pro First Team).
Hightower likely would fit as an inside linebacker in the Jets defense next to Darron Lee. Looking at the current roster and cap situation, one might guess David Harris would be cut if the Jets made this signing. It would be to clear a spot in the lineup for Hightower. The $6 million plus the Jets would save on the cap presumably would also go to pay some of Hightower’s salary.