Dont'a Hightower Reportedly Drawing Interest from Dolphins in Free Agency

The Miami Dolphins have expressed interest in linebacker Dont'a Hightower, according to Jeff Howe of the Boston Herald.

Hightower, 26, was a linchpin for the New England Patriots defense in 2016, registering 65 tackles, 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble in 13 games. He was excellent in the team's three postseason contests, posting 13 tackles, a sack and a forced fumble.

Certainly, it would be a surprise if the Patriots and Hightower didn't ultimately agree to a long-term contract. But the Patriots have been a team full of surprises already this offseason, trading for Dwayne Allen, per ESPN.com, and reportedly agreeing on a five-year contract with cornerback Stephon Gilmore, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.

In fact, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network reported the Patriots were in "good communication" with Hightower's representatives on a new contract. 

Plus, the team could potentially ship corner Malcolm Butler to the New Orleans Saints in exchange for Brandin Cooks, per Dianna Russini of ESPN. Add in the fact that they traded talented linebacker Jamie Collins to the Cleveland Browns last season, and trying to predict what the Patriots will do is a fool's errand.

In Miami, Hightower would be a major upgrade to a linebacker corps that underwent a series of injuries last year. He'd also help a defense that allowed 140.4 rushing yards per game, 30th in the NFL.

He won't come cheap, however, with Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press noting he would likely sign a deal in the $10-12 million range per year. But for a Dolphins team with a lot of talent on both sides of the ball looking to return to the postseason, the investment likely would be worthwhile.