Dont'a Hightower returning to Patriots after evaluating free agency options

Dont'a Hightower isn't going anywhere.

After taking a week to explore his free agent options, the linebacker's agency announced he'll be re-signing with the New England Patriots.

The veteran defensive leader agreed to a four-year deal worth up to $43.5 million with $19 million guaranteed, making him among the league's best-compensated inside linebackers.

Hightower had been linked to multiple teams, paying the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers visits. But multiple reports suggested that outside teams all assumed he was using them as leverage before eventually returning to Foxborough, Mass.

The Patriots' first-round pick in 2012, 25th overall, Hightower's best asset is his versatility. At 265 pounds, he's strong against the run, yet also nimble in coverage and an effective blitzer.

His strip sack of Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan was widely credited by Patriots players as the turning point in New England's Super Bowl LI comeback.

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