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Jets Rumors: New York a Leading Candidate to Sign Dont’a Hightower

By Nick Ziegler

Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots middle linebacker Dont'a Hightower (54) celebrates with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after beating the Atlanta Falcons during Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 5, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; New England Patriots middle linebacker Dont'a Hightower (54) celebrates with the Vince Lombardi Trophy after beating the Atlanta Falcons during Super Bowl LI at NRG Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports /
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Recent New York Jets rumors are that they are emerging as a leader to sign linebacker Dont’a Hightower.

With the offseason in full swing, there have been plenty of New York Jets rumors. So far this offseason, the Jets have gotten rid of a lot of their veterans as they head into a rebuild.

Due to them having a poor season and releasing veterans, the Jets have created multiple voids on their team. One of the most glaring was their offensive line. However, most of their money this offseason has been spent trying to improve that unit.

Now, it appears that the Jets are turning their focus to the defensive side of the ball. Coming into the 2016 season, the Jets looked good on paper defensively. Despite having some good players, the Jets really were a disappointment all year on that side of the ball.

Furthermore, they appear to be looking to upgrade at the linebacker position this offseason. According to Jason La Canfora, the Jets are among the leaders to sign linebacker Dont’a Hightower.

Hightower is one of the best players still available in free agency and would be a huge acquisition for the Jets. With the New England Patriots, Hightower has emerged as one of the best linebackers in the NFL. With a knack for making plays, Hightower has been a crucial part of the two most recent Super Bowl wins for the Patriots.

According to Pro Football Focus, Hightower was ranked as the 12th best linebacker in the NFL. Hightower was also very good in coverage as a linebacker, which is something the Jets have struggled at that position. While Hightower was good against both the run and the pass, he really excels at rushing the passer. As shown in the Super Bowl, Hightower can change a game with his ability to put pressure on a quarterback.

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Seeing the Jets as a possible landing spot for Hightower is very interesting. The Patriots appear to have valued Hightower quite a bit, but they did let him test free agency. If the Jets are willing to overpay a bit, they might be able to land a great free agent.

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