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

New England Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower was nursing a shoulder injury that had him listed as questionable for Super Bowl 51 against the Atlanta Falcons. However, he is ready to play.

Continue for updates.  

---

Hightower Active vs. Falcons

Sunday, Feb. 5

The Patriots announced Hightower is available to play in the Super Bowl against Atlanta.

---

Hightower Is Vital Cog of Patriots Defense

Hightower has operated as the fulcrum of the Patriots defense all season long, as he recorded 65 total tackles, 2.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a safety. 

Thanks to his steady play in the middle of New England's front seven, Hightower earned the top grade (85.4) among all Patriots linebackers and defensive linemen, per Pro Football Focus' Michael Renner. 

"It's crazy what he can do," linebacker Elandon Roberts said of Hightower, per the Boston Globe's Ben Volin. "Dont'a can take on an offensive lineman and also at the same time cover a tight end, and at about 260 [pounds], you don't see that. And he can run with them all. He's just an explosive guy."