Dont'a Hightower among Patriots offseason award winners

Bostonglobe.com

Dont'a Hightower was among Patriots best offseason performers. Each offseason, the Patriots award standout participants of their offseason workout program. Players who win the award have their photo hung up near the teams weight room, and are also given priority parking spots at Gillette stadium. Via Field Yates ESPN:

"The other award winners were linebacker Jerod Mayo, safety Devin McCourty, wide receiver Julian Edelman, linebacker Dont'a Hightower, cornerback Logan Ryan, linebacker Jamie Collins, fullback James Develin, safety Nate Ebner and defensive tackle Chris Jones."

One thing to note is that the entire linebacking corps was named. Perhaps most interestingly third year LB Dont'a Hightower who has had an awesome camp was on the list. Hightower had big shoes to fill last year when he took on the Jerod Mayo role on a defense that was without two of its perennial pro bowlers. So to see him step up and be a stand out at camp is definitely a good sign. Despite being just 24 years old, Hightower proved competent to lead a defense in a time when it was most difficult. If the young backer can stay healthy and continue to improve we could possibly have one of the strongest linebacker groups in the league.


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