New England Patriots' Dont'a Hightower (54) on the sidelines against the Carolina Panthers during the first half of an NFL preseason football game in Charlotte, N.C., Friday, Aug. 28, 2015. The Patriots won 17-16. (AP Photo/Bob Leverone)Bob Leverone/Associated Press

Dont'a Hightower Injury: Updates on Patriots Star's Ribs and Return

Adam WellsOct 11, 2015

New England Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower has been battling a rib injury he suffered in the first half against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 5, but he is ready to play.

Continue for updates.

TOP NEWS

Hightower Active Week 7

Sunday, Oct. 25

The Patriots announced Hightower was not on the list of inactive players for their game against the New York Jets.

Hightower Crucial for Patriots Pass Rush

Even though the Patriots defense isn't built around one dominant defensive player, Hightower is a clear standout. He tied for the second-most sacks on the team last season with six and was named to the Pro Football Focus All-Pro Team because of his all-around skill set.

Hightower becomes even more valuable with star linebacker Jerod Mayo missing 10 games in each of the last two seasons. Linebacker depth isn't an area of strength for the Patriots, so head coach Bill Belichick will be thankful Hightower is able to play.