Dont'a Hightower Injury: Updates on Patriots LB's Knee and Return

New England Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower suffered a knee injury against the Denver Broncos in Week 12 and missed the following two weeks. However, he is ready to return.

Continue for updates.

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Hightower Active for Week 15

Sunday, Dec. 20

The Patriots did not list Hightower among the inactive players against the Tennessee Titans.

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Latest on Hightower's Practice Status

Friday, Dec. 18

The team announced that Hightower was a limited participant in Friday's session. 

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Timeline for Hightower's Return Reportedly Revealed

Monday, Nov. 30

Dianna Marie Russini of ESPN reported Hightower is considered "week to week."

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Severity of Hightower's Knee Injury Reportedly Revealed

Monday, Nov. 30

NFL Network's Albert Breer, citing a source, reported, "Hightower is believed to have suffered an MCL sprain."

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Hightower's Absence Was a Major Blow to Patriots Defense

Per Pro-Football-Reference.com, the fourth-year veteran tallied six sacks last season in only 12 games. He was also named to Pro Football Focus’ All-Pro team in 2014, largely because his “ability to do a lot of things well sets him apart.”

Hightower attacks the passer with explosive athleticism from the second level and can pursue ball-carriers from sideline to sideline with his speed. He is also solid in coverage, understands New England’s defensive schemes and brings plenty of postseason experience to the table.

Hightower left a victory over the Dallas Cowboys earlier in the season, and Jerod Mayo and Jonathan Freeny were asked to play additional snaps. While Mayo and Freeny lack the overall ability of Hightower, New England’s defense withstood the Cowboys attack and held Dallas to a meager six points.

Against the Broncos in Week 12, Freeny accumulated 12 total tackles, including one sack, while Mayo added five total tackles. Prior to leaving due to the injury, Hightower recorded three total tackles and has 55 combined tackles with 3.5 sacks this season.